bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desenvolvimento e validação e um software educativo para o ensino de vacinação
Authors: Lima Sebastião Junio de , Santos Marcela Gláucia dos , Amaral Gabriela Gonçalves , Andrade Heuler Souza , Guimarães Eliete Albano de Azevedo , Oliveira Valéria Conceição de
Published: June 2021

Este estudo buscou desenvolver e validar um software para o ensino de vacinação. Trata-se de um estudo metodológico do tipo aplicado destinado a desenvolver um software educativo para o ensino-aprendizagem do conteúdo de vacinação, além de validar seus conteúdo e aparência, realizado no estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil, em 2018. Utilizou-se como referencial metodológico o Design Science e como referencial teórico o Cone de Aprendizagem de Edgar Dale. Para a modelagem foi utilizado o DrawExpress Diagram e, para a construção do software, o Microsoft Visual Studio 2008, e a linguagem de programação Visual Basic for Applications da Microsoft. Todas as informações contidas no software foram baseadas em normatizações e orientações do Programa Nacional de Imunizações brasileiro. A validação de conteúdo e aparência ocorreu com dois diferentes grupos: docentes/pesquisadores (Juízes) e estudantes (Público-alvo) de enfermagem. Utilizou-se um questionário para avaliar objetivos, organização, estilo da informação, aparência e motivação do software. Realizaram-se dois ciclos da validação. O software foi desenvolvido e validado por oito docentes/pesquisadores e 22 alunos, obtendo boas avaliações. O software Vaccine MegaCyber foi desenvolvido e validado, obtendo excelente avaliação, mostrando-se efetivo no processo de ensino-aprendizagem em vacinação, segundo pesquisadores da área e públicos-alvo, representados pelos estudantes, caracterizados pelos usuários finais desta tecnologia. Acredita-se que esta tecnologia educativa possa ser uma importante ferramenta no processo ensino-aprendizagem do conteúdo de vacinação para os estudantes de graduação em enfermagem.
Boas práticas de cuidado às pessoas que usam drogas no contexto da atenção psicossocial
Authors: Rodrigues Cândida Garcia Sinott  Silveira , Tavares Diogo Henrique , Coimbra Valéria Cristina Christello , Franchini Beatriz , Maas Tiago , Tomberg Jéssica Oliveira
Published: June 2021

Objetivo: refletir sobre as boas práticas em saúde mental no cuidado às pessoas usam drogas no contexto de atenção psicossocial.  Método: estudo teórico reflexivo sustentado em revisão narrativa de literatura, nas bases de dados Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde e PubMed/Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval Sistem on-line, sendo os critérios de seleção: artigos em português, inglês e espanhol; disponíveis na íntegra, que retratassem a temática referente à reflexão das boas práticas, nos últimos vinte anos. Resultados e discussão: para discutir e refletir sobre as boas práticas em saúde mental, foram criadas quatro categorias temáticas: Acesso aos serviços e a utilização da Rede de Atenção à Saúde (RAS) pelos usuários de Substâncias Psicoativas; Protagonismo e autonomia da pessoa no cuidado em saúde mental; O cuidado humanizado no território e a Redução de Danos; e Incorporação da família no cuidado. Conclusão: apesar dos avanços identificados na perspectiva de cuidado psicossocial, ainda é necessário demonstrar a importância dos serviços comunitários que atendem pessoas que usam drogas.
Maceração fetal em gata: Relato de caso
Authors: Alcantara Myrla Rodrigues , Santos Marcos Wilker da Conceição , Lopes Jaine Mendes , Menezes Artur Azevedo , Ferraz Priscila Assis , Gomes Junior Deusdete Conceição , Rodrigues Alexandra Soares
Published: June 2021

Objetivou-se relatar um caso de maceração fetal em uma gata, de aproximadamente 3 anos, pesando 5,0 kg sem raça definida, após uso de dose de contraceptivo a base de acetato de medroxiprogesterona pós cobertura. A paciente deu entrada no Hospital Veterinário Universitário da UFOB apresentando desconforto abdominal e corrimento vaginal sanguinolento fétido, com histórico de aplicação de anticoncepcional. No exame físico, apesar dos parâmetros não estarem alterados, foi notado elevada distensão abdominal bilateral. A palpação notou-se aumento de volume uterino com presença de fluido e material firme. Na ultrassonografia abdominal observou-se presença de estruturas ósseas de três fetos com silhuetas irregulares e ausência de batimentos cardíacos, constatando-se, assim, que se tratava de um quadro de morte fetal em processo de maceração. Após estabilização clínica, o animal foi submetido a ovariohisterectomia. Sete dias após o procedimento cirúrgico, houve o retorno do paciente onde se encontrava ativa, assim, sendo realizada a retirada dos pontos e alta médica.
Os reflexos do HIV na vida do jovem soropositivo
Authors: Lima Ana Carolina da Costa Correia , Cascaes Karine Machado , Almeida Inez Silva de , Costa Andréia Jorge da , Andrade Priscila Cristina da Silva Thiengo de , Fernandes Juliana de Souza , Gomes Helena Ferraz , Perez Ellen Márcia , Souza Vinícius Rodrigues de , Valente Geilsa Soraia Cavalcanti
Published: June 2021

Objetivo: Compreender os reflexos do HIV/aids na vida de jovens soropositivos. Metodologia: Pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva e exploratória realizada com 11 jovens atendidos em um ambulatório especializado em saúde do adolescente. Utilizou-se como instrumento de coleta de dados a entrevista semiestruturada a partir de perguntas com finalidade de traçar o perfil dos jovens, bem como abordar experiências vividas após o diagnóstico da doença.  Os dados foram analisados e agrupados em três categorias temáticas, sendo discutidos à luz de estudiosos ligados à temática. Resultados: Compreendeu-se sobre os sentimentos que o diagnóstico de HIV/aids traz a vida de jovens, especialmente, pela associação da doença à morte e ao preconceito. Conclusão: Este estudo permitiu elucidar a questão de que, para trabalhar com jovens soropositivos na área da saúde, é necessário que o enfermeiro fortaleça o vínculo com os usuários, promovendo um acolhimento eficaz, se utilizando de sensibilidade e empatia para reduzir os efeitos desagradáveis acerca da doença e atenuar o sofrimento durante o tratamento e acompanhamento do jovem.
Análise do Senso de Coerência, ansiedade e depressão em alunos de pós-graduação: Estudo follow up
Authors: Silva Priscila Florentino , Caldas Júnior Arnaldo de França , Albuquerque Diana Santana
Published: June 2021

O interesse pela pesquisa que afere a ansiedade, depressão e resiliência entre estudantes de pós-graduação da área de saúde durante o curso tem aumentado nos últimos anos. Este estudo analítico follow-up avaliou a presença de ansiedade, depressão e senso de coerência (resiliência) em estudantes de pós-graduação da UPE e UFPB de Odontologia e outros cursos (Enfermagem, Educação Física, Hebiatria, Perícias Forenses). Foi utilizado um questionário socioeconômico, seguido do questionário de Senso de Coerência (SOC) que mensura a capacidade do indivíduo em ser adaptativo aos eventos diários. O Inventário de Ansiedade Estado-Traço (STAI) mediu a ansiedade-estado (sobre um evento) e ansiedade-traço (característica pessoal). O Inventário de Depressão de Beck (BDI-II) foi o quarto instrumento dessa pesquisa. A primeira coleta de dados foi realizada nas aulas inaugurais das turmas de mestrado 2019/2020 e a segunda coleta de dados foi realizada no momento da qualificação dos alunos. Os participantes da pesquisa apresentaram aumento no valor do senso de coerência, aumento nos níveis de ansiedade-estado de 14,6% para 36,7% (p<0.001) e a ansiedade-traço continuou com níveis altos. No segundo momento 2 alunos apresentaram depressão severa e 72,5% mínima depressão. Conclui-se que houve um aumento do senso de coerência, surgimento da depressão severa, ansiedade-traço no nível moderado e o aumento da ansiedade-estado (p<0,001) entre os alunos pós-graduandos pesquisados.
Sensorial, physicist-chemistries and microbiological analyses of samples of honeys produced for Apis mellifera in the region of the Cocais Maranhenses, Maranhão State, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Livia Feitosa Pereira , Bogéa Ana Lourdes Gomes , Rosário Marcelino Santos do , Silva Ana Clara Lima Nunes , Costa Maria Célia Pires
Published: June 2021

This work had as objective to proceed sensorial analyses, microbiological physical-chemistries and, of comparative form, the honeys, collected for the producers and researcher, of mellifera Apis bee of the cities of Codó and Itapecuru-Mirim, pertaining to the region of the Cocais, Maranhao State.  It observed in the first, collected in such a way for the producer how much for the researcher, presented a bigger water text (average humidity of 21,05%) when compared with the second (20.98%), making it difficult its storage, therefore the high water text of the product diminishes its useful life of shelf. For total acidity, the value highest was for the honey produced in Codó (79.19% to 91.80% b), when compared with the honey produced in Itapecuru-Mirim (37.78% to 48.36% b), what it can be explained by the temperature difference, being higher in Codó, For the values of pH the honey of Itapecuru_Mirim was gotten presenting lower value (3,2).  For reducing sugars, the honey of Itapecuru - Mirim it presented average of next values (64.14% b - 64.20%) to the demanded minimum as standard. For the values of sacarose the samples of Codó, had presented minors average values of (23.59% b 24.29%); in the parameter you sweeten totals the samples of Itapecuru_Mirim presented greater average index (93,73). For the HMF analyses the samples of Codó had presented average values (67,77a the 76,33b). For the too much studied parameters it did not have significant difference between  treatments.
Vigilância da Qualidade da Água para Consumo Humano (VIGIAGUA) e fluoretação da Rede de Abastecimento Público: Monitoramento em um município da Região Sul do Brasil
Authors: Pinto Larissa Leonarda , Martins Carolina da Silva , Vianna Giovana Daniela Pecharki , Gabardo Marilisa Carneiro Leão , Ditterich Rafael Gomes
Published: June 2021

A fluoretação da água de abastecimento público é considerada um dos métodos sistêmicos mais efetivos na prevenção da cárie, com abrangência populacional e bom custo-benefício. Para que o máximo benefício da adição de fluoreto na rede de abastecimento ocorra, é necessário que sua oferta seja constante e a concentração esteja dentro da faixa considerada segura e ideal, feita por meio do heterocontrole. O objetivo desse estudo foi descrever e analisar a ação do Programa Nacional de Vigilância da Qualidade da Água para Consumo Humano (VIGIAGUA), em relação ao controle da concentração de fluoreto presente na água de abastecimento no município de Piraquara-PR, Brasil, no ano de 2018. Os dados foram extraídos do Sistema de Informação de Vigilância da Qualidade da Água para Consumo Humano (SISAGUA) e então classificados de acordo com três critérios I (BRASIL, 1975), II (RAMIRES et al., 2006) e III (Cecol/USP, 2011).  A análise dos dados foi feita no SPSS (versão 20.0, IBM, EUA). Foram encontradas 44 análises, com média anual de 0,622 mg F/L e desvio padrão de 0,250. Para os critérios I e II as amostras se classificaram como subfluoretadas e para o critério III apresentaram máximo benefício e mínimo risco. O município não cumpriu a Diretriz Nacional do Plano de Amostragem da Vigilância da Qualidade da Água para Consumo Humano para o ano avaliado nem apresentou teores contínuos de fluoreto, indicando a necessidade de adequação. O fortalecimento do heterocontrole é necessário para que o discurso anti-fluoretação não seja fortalecido, colocando em risco os avanços alcançados com a medida.
Desafios de estudantes concluintes do curso de bacharelado em enfermagem, diante do estágio supervisionado e a pandemia da Covid-19
Authors: Moreira Cristiane de Lima , Tonon Thiarles Cristian Aparecido
Published: June 2021

O presente estudo tem como temática os desafios enfrentados pelos discentes do curso de enfermagem durante a realização do estágio diante da pandemia do COVID-19. Tal tema consiste em uma discussão atual e necessária, em face das dificuldades encontradas mediante as mudanças no ensino, com a adoção das aulas remotas e da instabilidade do sistema de saúde onde diversos estudantes atuaram e realizaram seus estágios contribuindo para o enfrentamento dos milhares de casos de contaminação pelo vírus SARS-CoV-2. A presente pesquisa formulou-se como um estudo bibliográfico, exploratório e qualitativo que apresenta como objetivo geral evidenciar o contexto acadêmico referente ao estágio supervisionado do curso de Bacharelado em Enfermagem, durante o período pandêmico da COVID-19, revelando as dificuldades e limitações encontradas pelos discentes no campo de atuação. Acerca dos resultados obtidos, esclarece que foi verificado que tanto os discentes como os docentes do curso de enfermagem enfrentaram dificuldades de acesso, conhecimento e concentração diante da utilização dos recursos digitais, bem como presenciaram momentos de insegurança, medo, impotência e angústia frente a atuação na linha de frente no combate aos casos de COVID-19. Dessa forma, conclui-se que o contexto atual provocou diversas reflexões, principalmente no campo da educação que necessitou reformular e adaptar suas metodologias afim de promover a continuidade do ensino profissional e acadêmico. É importante ressaltar que houve aspectos positivos diante desse momento, onde aqueles estudantes que se disponibilizaram a atuar frente a linha de frente dos hospitais vivenciaram situações de luta, alegria e superação.
Avaliação dos cardápios quanto a composição nutricional de escolas municipais da área urbana e rural da cidade de Manaus
Authors: Santos Andrezza Martins dos , Costa Elves Fadoul da , Ferreira José Carlos de Sales
Published: June 2021

Introdução: a alimentação escolar é importante para que todas as crianças estejam bem alimentadas evitando desatenção durante as aulas ou baixo rendimento no período escolar. E para que isso ocorra, o Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar (PNAE) deve funcionar corretamente na elaboração dos cardápios com base nas próprias diretrizes. Objetivos: Avaliar os cardápios quanto a composição nutricional das Escolas Municipais, área urbana e rural, da cidade de Manaus com base nos critérios estabelecidos na elaboração de cardápios do PNAE. Materiais e Métodos: É uma pesquisa do tipo descritivo, qualitativa e quantitativa, com avaliação documental dos cardápios de 2019 das Escolas Municipais do Ensino Fundamental I, disponibilizados no site oficial da Secretaria Municipal de Educação (Semed). Resultados: os teores médios de energia dos cardápios resultaram em 408,47 Kcal, distribuídos em 17, 07g de proteínas, 10,09g de lipídios, 63,27g de carboidratos e 5,53 g de fibras. Observou-se que os valores da quantidade de energia, macronutrientes e fibras são preocupantes, pois estão acima dos valores de referência. Já o cálcio é de 157,85 mg e o ferro é 2,61mg, ou seja, o cálcio está dentro da recomendação enquanto o ferro se encontra acima do valor de referência. Conclusão: é necessário realizar mudanças no cardápio para que as crianças possam obter as necessidades nutricionais adequadas e assim tornar o rendimento escolar delas mais produtivo, já que as necessidades nutricionais diárias de macronutrientes, quantidade de calorias, fibras e ferro oferecidos nos cardápios estavam acima da recomendação. Além de priorizar por alimentos regionais nos cardápios.
Clusters of Toxoplasmosis in Ganghwa-gun, Cheorwon-gun, and Goseong-gun, Korea
Authors: Yu Jihye , Kim Woojin , Chang Yoon Kyung , Kim Tong-Soo , Hong Sung-Jong , Ahn Hye-Jin , Nam Ho-Woo , Kim Dongjae
Published: June 2021

We find out the clusters with high toxoplasmosis risk to discuss the geographical pattern in Gyodong-myeon and Samsan-myeon of Ganghwa-gun, Cheorwon-gun, and Goseong-gun, Korea. Seroepidemiological data of toxoplasmosis surveyed using rapid diagnostic tests for the residents in the areas in 2019 were analyzed to detect clusters of the infection. The cluster was investigated using the SaTScan program which is based on Kulldorff’s scan statistic. The clusters were found with P-values in each region analyzed in the program, and the risk and patient incidence of specific areas can be examined by the values such as relative risk and log likelihood ratio. Jiseok-ri and Insa-ri were found to be a cluster in Gyodong-myeon and Seokmo-ri was the cluster in Samsan-myeon. Yangji-ri and Igil-ri were found to be a cluster in Cheorwon-gun and Madal-ri and Baebong-ri were the cluster in Goseong-gun. This findings can be used to monitor and prevent toxoplasmosis infections occurring in vulnerable areas.
Monitoring Chigger Mites for Orientia tsutsugamushi in Field Small Mammals in Hwaseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea, 2019-2020
Authors: Bahk Young Yil , Ahn Seong Kyu , Lee Jinyoung , Kwon Hyung Wook , Hong Sung Jong , Kim Tong-Soo
Published: June 2021

Incidence of tsutsugamushi disease (scrub typhus) caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, is steadily increasing. It is a mite-borne disease transmitted by chigger mites. In this study, the chigger mites were collected from field small mammals in Hwaseong-si (city), Gyeonggi-do (province), Korea, 2019 and 2020. The field small mammals captured were 56 Apodemus agrarius (94.9%) and 3 Crocidura lasiura (5.1%). A total of 7,531 chigger mites were collected from the captured small mammals. Using PCR test, 153 chigger mite pools were examined and 17 pools were reported positive for O. tsutsugamushi. The O. tsutsugamushi were identified to 5 strains; Jecheon strain was most prevalent, followed by Boryong strain. The other strains were OI011, Taguchi, and Shimokoshi. Collectively, these results provide essential regional information on mite-borne tsutsugamushi disease in the Hwaseong-si, and further contribute to bring awareness and rapid diagnosis for the tsutsugamushi disease.
Why Should Nodule Cysteine-Rich (NCR) Peptides Be Absent From Nodules of Some Groups of Legumes but Essential for Symbiotic N-Fixation in Others?
Authors: Downie J. Allan , Kondorosi Eva
Published: June 2021

In nitrogen-fixing nodules of legumes such as pea (Pisum) and Medicago spp. the plant induces terminal differentiation in the rhizobial endosymbionts by targeting nodule-specific cysteine-rich defensin-like peptides into the bacteria. However, in nodules of other legumes such as soybean and Lotus spp. terminal bacterial differentiation does not occur; these legumes lack genes encoding equivalent peptides controlling rhizobial development. Here, we review the effects of some of these peptides on rhizobia and address the question as to how and why such peptides may have evolved to enslave rhizobia and become essential for nitrogen fixation in some clades of legumes but not in others.
Robustifying Experimental Tracer Design for13C-Metabolic Flux Analysis
Authors: Beyß Martin , Parra-Peña Victor D. , Ramirez-Malule Howard , Nöh Katharina
Published: June 2021

13C metabolic flux analysis (MFA) has become an indispensable tool to measure metabolic reaction rates (fluxes) in living organisms, having an increasingly diverse range of applications. Here, the choice of the13C labeled tracer composition makes the difference between an information-rich experiment and an experiment with only limited insights. To improve the chances for an informative labeling experiment, optimal experimental design approaches have been devised for13C-MFA, all relying on some a priori knowledge about the actual fluxes. If such prior knowledge is unavailable, e.g., for research organisms and producer strains, existing methods are left with a chicken-and-egg problem. In this work, we present a general computational method, termed robustified experimental design (R-ED), to guide the decision making about suitable tracer choices when prior knowledge about the fluxes is lacking. Instead of focusing on one mixture, optimal for specific flux values, we pursue a sampling based approach and introduce a new design criterion, which characterizes the extent to which mixtures are informative in view of all possible flux values. The R-ED workflow enables the exploration of suitable tracer mixtures and provides full flexibility to trade off information and cost metrics. The potential of the R-ED workflow is showcased by applying the approach to the industrially relevant antibiotic producer Streptomyces clavuligerus, where we suggest informative, yet economic labeling strategies.
CircUBAP2 Promotes MMP9-Mediated Oncogenic Effect via Sponging miR-194-3p in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Boqiang , Tian Yuanshi , Chen Mingyu , Shen Hao , Xia Jiafeng , Nan Junjie , Yan Tingting , Wang Yifan , Shi Liang , Shen Bo , Yu Hong , Cai Xiujun
Published: June 2021

Background

The physiological regulatory functions of circRNAs have become a topic of intensive research in recent years. Increasing evidence supports a significant role of circRNAs during cancer initiation and progression, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Materials and Methods

A bioinformatics analysis from three independent Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases was performed to profile and screen the dysregulated circRNAs in HCC. RT-qPCR was used to examine the expression level of circUBAP2 in HCC and adjacent non-tumor tissues. Then, proliferation assays (CCK8 and colony formation) and migration assays (transwell and wound healing) were performed to examine effect of circUBAP2 in vitro. Immunoprecipitation, RNA pulldown, FISH, and dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to explore the circUBAP2-related mechanism for regulating HCC progression. Moreover, a mouse xenograft model and a mouse lung metastasis model confirmed the effect of circUBAP2 in vivo.

Results

In this study, we found a novel circRNA: circUBAP2, which was identified by bioinformatics analysis. Among 91 HCC patients, circUBAP2 was significantly upregulated in HCC tissues, and negatively correlated with aggressive clinical characteristics and prognosis. Functional assays demonstrated that circUBAP2 promoted cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion in vitro. Moreover, circUBAP2 enhanced tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, circUBAP2 acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-194-3p, a tumor suppressor in HCC. We confirmed that MMP9 was direct target for miR-194-3p, which was regulated by circUBAP2.

Conclusion

CircUBAP2 plays a significant role in promoting HCC via the miR-194-3p/MMP9 pathway and could serve as a promising prognostic biomarker and novel therapeutic target for HCC patients.
Genome-Wide Identification of Powdery Mildew Resistance in Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Binagwa Papias H. , Traore Sy M. , Egnin Marceline , Bernard Gregory C. , Ritte Inocent , Mortley Desmond , Kamfwa Kelvin , He Guohao , Bonsi Conrad
Published: June 2021

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have been utilized to detect genetic variations related to several agronomic traits and disease resistance in common bean. However, its application in the powdery mildew (PM) disease to identify candidate genes and their location in the common bean genome has not been fully addressed. Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping with a BeadChip containing 5398 SNPs was used to detect genetic variations related to PM disease resistance in a panel of 211 genotypes grown under two field conditions for two consecutive years. Significant SNPs identified on chromosomes Pv04 and Pv10 were repeatable, ensuring the phenotypic data’s reliability and the causal relationship. A cluster of resistance genes was revealed on the Pv04 of the common bean genome, coiled-coil-nucleotide-binding site–leucine-rich repeat (CC-NBS-LRR, CNL), and Toll/interleukin-1 receptor-nucleotide-binding site–leucine-rich repeat type (TIR-NBS-LRR, TNL)-like resistance genes were identified. Furthermore, two resistance genes,Phavu_010G1320001gandPhavu_010G136800g, were also identified on Pv10. Further sequence analysis showed that these genes were homologs to the disease-resistance protein (RLM1A-like) and the putative disease-resistance protein (At4g11170.1) inArabidopsis. Significant SNPs related to two LRR receptor-like kinases (RLK) were only identified on Pv11 in 2018. Many genes encoding the auxin-responsive protein, TIFY10A protein, growth-regulating factor five-like, ubiquitin-like protein, and cell wall RBR3-like protein related to PM disease resistance were identified nearby significant SNPs. These results suggested that the resistance to PM pathogen involves a network of many genes constitutively co-expressed.
Quantifying 210Po/210Pb Disequilibrium in Seawater: A Comparison of Two Precipitation Methods With Differing Results
Authors: Roca-Martí Montserrat , Puigcorbé Viena , Castrillejo Maxi , Casacuberta Núria , Garcia-Orellana Jordi , Cochran J. Kirk , Masqué Pere
Published: June 2021

The disequilibrium between lead-210 (210Pb) and polonium-210 (210Po) is increasingly used in oceanography to quantify particulate organic carbon (POC) export from the upper ocean. This proxy is based on the deficits of 210Po typically observed in the upper water column due to the preferential removal of 210Po relative to 210Pb by sinking particles. Yet, a number of studies have reported unexpected large 210Po deficits in the deep ocean indicating scavenging of 210Po despite its radioactive mean life of ∼ 200 days. Two precipitation methods, Fe(OH)3 and Co-APDC, are typically used to concentrate Pb and Po from seawater samples, and deep 210Po deficits raise the question whether this feature is biogeochemically consistent or there is a methodological issue. Here, we present a compilation of 210Pb and 210Po studies that suggests that 210Po deficits at depths >300 m are more often observed in studies where Fe(OH)3 is used to precipitate Pb and Po from seawater, than in those using Co-APDC (in 68 versus 33% of the profiles analyzed for each method, respectively). In order to test whether 210Po/210Pb disequilibrium can be partly related to a methodological artifact, we directly compared the total activities of 210Pb and 210Po in four duplicate ocean depth-profiles determined by using Fe(OH)3 and Co-APDC on unfiltered seawater samples. While both methods produced the same 210Pb activities, results from the Co-APDC method showed equilibrium between 210Pb and 210Po below 100 m, whereas the Fe(OH)3 method resulted in activities of 210Po significantly lower than 210Pb throughout the entire water column. These results show that 210Po deficits in deep waters, but also in the upper ocean, may be greater when calculated using a commonly used Fe(OH)3 protocol. This finding has potential implications for the use of the 210Po/210Pb pair as a tracer of particle export in the oceans because 210Po (and thus POC) fluxes calculated using Fe(OH)3 on unfiltered seawater samples may be overestimated. Recommendations for future research are provided based on the possible reasons for the discrepancy in 210Po activities between both analytical methods.
The Impact of Excluding Nonrandomized Studies From Systematic Reviews in Rare Diseases: “The Example of Meta-Analyses Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Enzyme Replacement Therapy in Patients With Mucopolysaccharidosis”
Authors: Sampayo-Cordero Miguel , Miguel-Huguet Bernat , Malfettone Andrea , Pérez-García José Manuel , Llombart-Cussac Antonio , Cortés Javier , Pardo Almudena , Pérez-López Jordi
Published: June 2021

Nonrandomized studies are usually excluded from systematic reviews. This could lead to loss of a considerable amount of information on rare diseases. In this article, we explore the impact of excluding nonrandomized studies on the generalizability of meta-analyses results on mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) disease. A comprehensive search of systematic reviews on MPS patients up to May 2020 was carried out (CRD42020191217). The primary endpoint was the rate of patients excluded from systematic reviews if only randomized studies were considered. Secondary outcomes included the differences in patient and study characteristics between randomized and nonrandomized studies, the methods used to combine data from studies with different designs, and the number of patients excluded from systematic reviews if case reports were not considered. More than 50% of the patients analyzed have been recruited in nonrandomized studies. Patient characteristics, duration of follow-up, and the clinical outcomes evaluated differ between the randomized and nonrandomized studies. There are feasible strategies to combine the data from different randomized and nonrandomized designs. The analyses suggest the relevance of including case reports in the systematic reviews, since the smaller the number of patients in the reference population, the larger the selection bias associated to excluding case reports. Our results recommend including nonrandomized studies in the systematic reviews of MPS to increase the representativeness of the results and to avoid a selection bias. The recommendations obtained from this study should be considered when conducting systematic reviews on rare diseases.
Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide in Learning and Memory
Authors: Gilmartin Marieke R. , Ferrara Nicole C.
Published: June 2021

Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a highly conserved neuropeptide that regulates neuronal physiology and transcription through Gs/Gq-coupled receptors. Its actions within hypothalamic, limbic, and mnemonic systems underlie its roles in stress regulation, affective processing, neuroprotection, and cognition. Recently, elevated PACAP levels and genetic disruption of PAC1 receptor signaling in humans has been linked to maladaptive threat learning and pathological stress and fear in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PACAP is positioned to integrate stress and memory in PTSD for which memory of the traumatic experience is central to the disorder. However, PACAP’s role in memory has received comparatively less attention than its role in stress. In this review, we consider the evidence for PACAP-PAC1 receptor signaling in learning and plasticity, discuss emerging data on sex differences in PACAP signaling, and raise key questions for further study toward elucidating the contribution of PACAP to adaptive and maladaptive fear learning.
Comparison of Risk Factors, Safety, and Efficacy Outcomes of Mechanical Thrombectomy in Posterior vs. Anterior Circulation Large Vessel Occlusion
Authors: Mbroh Joshua , Poli Khouloud , Tünnerhoff Johannes , Gomez-Exposito Alexandra , Wang Yi , Bender Benjamin , Hempel Johann-Martin , Hennersdorf Florian , Feil Katharina , Mengel Annerose , Ziemann Ulf , Poli Sven
Published: June 2021

Background and Purpose: It is believed that stroke occurring due to posterior circulation large vessel occlusion (PCLVO) and that occurring due to anterior circulation large vessel occlusion (ACLVO) differ in terms of their pathophysiology and the outcome of their acute management in relation to endovascular mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Limited sample size and few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with respect to PCLVO make the safety and efficacy of MT, which has been confirmed in ACLVO, difficult to assess in the posterior circulation. We therefore conducted a meta-analysis to study to which extent MT in PCLVO differs from ACLVO.

Materials and Methods: We searched the databases PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE for studies published between 2010 and January 2021, with information on risk factors, safety, and efficacy outcomes of MT in PCLVO vs. ACLVO and conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis; we compared baseline characteristics, reperfusion treatment profiles [including rates of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and onset-to-IVT and onset-to-groin puncture times], recanalization success [Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction scale (TICI) 2b/3], symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH), and favorable functional outcome [modified Rankin Score (mRS) 0–2] and mortality at 90 days.

Results: Sixteen studies with MT PCLVO (1,172 patients) and ACLVO (7,726 patients) were obtained from the search. The pooled estimates showed higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (SMD 0.32, 95% CI 0.15–0.48) in the PCLVO group. PCLVO patients received less often IVT (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.53–0.79). Onset-to-IVT time (SMD 0.86, 95% CI 0.45–1.26) and onset-to-groin puncture time (SMD 0.59, 95% CI 0.33–0.85) were longer in the PCLVO group. The likelihood of obtaining successful recanalization and favorable functional outcome at 90 days was comparable between the two groups. PCLVO was, however, associated with less sICH (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.37–0.85) but higher mortality (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.46–2.53).

Conclusions: This meta-analysis indicates that MT in PCLVO may be comparably efficient in obtaining successful recanalization and 90 day favorable functional outcome just as in ACLVO. Less sICH in MT-treated PCLVO patients might be the result of the lower IVT rate in this group. Higher baseline NIHSS and longer onset-to-IVT and onset-to-groin puncture times may have contributed to a higher 90 day mortality in PCLVO patients.
The Role of the Right Hemisphere White Matter Tracts in Chronic Aphasic Patients After Damage of the Language Tracts in the Left Hemisphere
Authors: Kourtidou Evie , Kasselimis Dimitrios , Angelopoulou Georgia , Karavasilis Efstratios , Velonakis Georgios , Kelekis Nikolaos , Zalonis Ioannis , Evdokimidis Ioannis , Potagas Constantin , Petrides Michael
Published: June 2021

The involvement of the right hemisphere (RH) in language, and especially after aphasia resulting from left hemisphere (LH) lesions, has been recently highlighted. The present study investigates white matter structure in the right hemisphere of 25 chronic post-stroke aphasic patients after LH lesions in comparison with 24 healthy controls, focusing on the four cortico-cortical tracts that link posterior parietal and temporal language-related areas with Broca’s region in the inferior frontal gyrus of the LH: the Superior Longitudinal Fasciculi II and III (SLF II and SLF III), the Arcuate Fasciculus (AF), and the Temporo-Frontal extreme capsule Fasciculus (TFexcF). Additionally, the relationship of these RH white matter tracts to language performance was examined. The patients with post-stroke aphasia in the chronic phase and the healthy control participants underwent diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) examination. The aphasic patients were assessed with standard aphasia tests. The results demonstrated increased axial diffusivity in the RH tracts of the aphasic patients. Patients were then divided according to the extent of the left hemisphere white matter loss. Correlations of language performance with radial diffusivity (RD) in the right hemisphere homologs of the tracts examined were demonstrated for the TFexcF, SLF III, and AF in the subgroup with limited damage to the LH language networks and only with the TFexcF in the subgroup with extensive damage. The results argue in favor of compensatory roles of the right hemisphere tracts in language functions when the LH networks are disrupted.
Sex-Specific Associations Between Trauma Exposure, Pubertal Timing, and Anxiety in Black Children
Authors: Stenson Anaïs F. , Michopoulos Vasiliki , Stevens Jennifer S. , Powers Abigail , Jovanovic Tanja
Published: June 2021

Recent research has linked early life stress (ELS), such as trauma exposure, with early puberty. Early puberty has also been identified as a risk factor for poor mental health outcomes. However, these two paths have primarily been examined independently. In addition, more studies have examined these associations in girls than boys, and findings for boys remain mixed. We hypothesized that early puberty (relative to peers) would be positively associated with both prior trauma exposure and concurrent anxiety symptoms. We anticipated that these associations might differ by sex. We tested these hypotheses within a cross-sectional sample of 133 8- to 13-year-old Black girls and boys with trauma exposure. The association between trauma and accelerated pubertal timing was sex-specific: it was positive for girls and negative for boys. We stratified subsequent analyses by sex. Regression analyses indicated that early puberty relative to peers predicted more anxiety symptoms for girls but not boys, after accounting for trauma exposure. A statistical mediation analysis indicated that, for girls, the positive association between trauma exposure and anxiety was partially mediated by pubertal timing. These results indicate that trauma exposure may have sex-specific effects on pubertal timing and anxiety risk in Black children. We also found that, for girls, trauma may increase risk for adverse outcomes by prompting earlier puberty, which is linked to higher anxiety. These findings are consistent with cascading effects of trauma across development, and highlight the need for further study of sex-specific mechanisms.
Influence of Visual Stimulation-Induced Passive Reproduction of Motor Images in the Brain on Motor Paralysis After Stroke
Authors: Aoyama Toshiyuki , Kanazawa Atsushi , Kohno Yutaka , Watanabe Shinya , Tomita Kazuhide , Kaneko Fuminari
Published: June 2021

Finger flexor spasticity, which is commonly observed among patients with stroke, disrupts finger extension movement, consequently influencing not only upper limb function in daily life but also the outcomes of upper limb therapeutic exercise. Kinesthetic illusion induced by visual stimulation (KINVIS) has been proposed as a potential treatment for spasticity in patients with stroke. However, it remains unclear whether KINVIS intervention alone could improve finger flexor spasticity and finger extension movements without other intervention modalities. Therefore, the current study investigated the effects of a single KINVIS session on finger flexor spasticity, including its underlying neurophysiological mechanisms, and finger extension movements. To this end, 14 patients who experienced their first episode of stroke participated in this study. A computer screen placed over the patient’s forearm displayed a pre-recorded mirror image video of the patient’s non-paretic hand performing flexion–extension movements during KINVIS. The position and size of the artificial hand were adjusted appropriately to create a perception that the artificial hand was the patient’s own. Before and after the 20-min intervention, Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) scores and active range of finger extension movements of the paretic hand were determined. Accordingly, MAS scores and active metacarpophalangeal joint extension range of motion improved significantly after the intervention. Moreover, additional experimentation was performed using F-waves on eight patients whose spasticity was reduced by KINVIS to determine whether the same intervention also decreased spinal excitability. Our results showed no change in F-wave amplitude and persistence after the intervention. These results demonstrate the potential clinical significance of KINVIS as a novel intervention for improving finger flexor spasticity and extension movements, one of the most significant impairments among patients with stroke. The decrease in finger flexor spasticity following KINVIS may be attributed to neurophysiological changes not detectable by the F-wave, such as changes in presynaptic inhibition of Ia afferents. Further studies are certainly needed to determine the long-term effects of KINVIS on finger spasticity, as well as the neurophysiological mechanisms explaining the reduction in spasticity.
Clinical Application of Machine Learning Models for Brain Imaging in Epilepsy: A Review
Authors: Sone Daichi , Beheshti Iman
Published: June 2021

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder characterized by recurrent and disabling seizures. An increasing number of clinical and experimental applications of machine learning (ML) methods for epilepsy and other neurological and psychiatric disorders are available. ML methods have the potential to provide a reliable and optimal performance for clinical diagnoses, prediction, and personalized medicine by using mathematical algorithms and computational approaches. There are now several applications of ML for epilepsy, including neuroimaging analyses. For precise and reliable clinical applications in epilepsy and neuroimaging, the diverse ML methodologies should be examined and validated. We review the clinical applications of ML models for brain imaging in epilepsy obtained from a PubMed database search in February 2021. We first present an overview of typical neuroimaging modalities and ML models used in the epilepsy studies and then focus on the existing applications of ML models for brain imaging in epilepsy based on the following clinical aspects: (i) distinguishing individuals with epilepsy from healthy controls, (ii) lateralization of the temporal lobe epilepsy focus, (iii) the identification of epileptogenic foci, (iv) the prediction of clinical outcomes, and (v) brain-age prediction. We address the practical problems and challenges described in the literature and suggest some future research directions.
Impaired Clinical Efficacy of Aspirin in Hypoalbuminemic Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sciacqua Angela , Andreozzi Francesco , Succurro Elena , Pastori Daniele , Cammisotto Vittoria , Armentaro Giuseppe , Mannino Gaia C. , Fiorentino Teresa Vanessa , Pignatelli Pasquale , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Sesti Giorgio , Violi Francesco
Published: June 2021

Objective: To investigate the impact of albumin levels on the aspirin efficacy, since aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation (PA) by cyclooxygenase one irreversible acetylation that is less effective in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Patients and Methods: A total of 612 aspirin (100 mg/day)-treated T2DM patients were followed-up for 54.4 ± 7.3 months. The primary endpoint, a composite of cardiovascular events (CVEs) including CV death, myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke and coronary revascularization, was analysed according to baseline values of serum albumin (≥ or < 3.5 g/dL). Serum thromboxane (Tx)B2 was also measured.

Results: 250 (40.8%) patients had serum albumin < 3.5 g/dL; these patients were overweight and had higher values of fibrinogen (p = 0.009), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (p = 0.001) and fasting plasma glucose (p < 0.0001) compared to those with albumin ≥ 3.5 g/dL. During follow-up, 86 CVEs were recorded, 49 and 37 in patients with serum albumin < or ≥3.5 g/dL, respectively (p = 0.001). At multivariable Cox regression analysis, serum albumin < 3.5 g/dL (hazard ratio [HR] 1.887, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.136–3.135, p = 0.014), age (HR 1.552 for every 10 years, 95%CI 1.157–2.081, p = 0.003), fasting plasma glucose (HR 1.063, 95%CI 1.022–1.105, p = 0.002) and beta-blocker use (HR 0.440, 95%CI 0.270–0.717, p = 0.001) were associated to CVEs. Serum TxB2 levels (n = 377) were 0.32 ± 0.12 and 0.24 ± 0.12 ng/ml in patients with albumin < or ≥ 3.5 g/dL, respectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: In T2DM patients, the efficacy of aspirin varies according to albumin levels. Hypoalbuminemia associated with impaired TxB2 inhibition and an increased risk of long-term CVEs.
Prevalence of Depression in Older Nursing Home Residents in High and Low Altitude Regions: A Comparative Study
Authors: Wang Fei , Liu Shou , Zhang Qinge , Ng Chee H. , Cui Xiling , Zhang Dexing , Xiang Yu-Tao
Published: June 2021

Objective: Depressive symptoms (depression hereafter) is common in older adults, and closely associated with environmental factors. This study compared the prevalence of depression in older adults living in high-altitude and low-altitude regions, and their association with quality of life (QOL).

Method: A total of 632 older nursing home residents were included, with 425 participants living in low-altitude and 207 participants living in high-altitude regions. Depression and QOL were assessed using standardized instruments.

Results: The prevalence of depression was 26.9% (95% CI: 23.43–30.37%) in the whole sample of older nursing home residents, with 11.1% (95% CI: 8.01–14.05%) in those living in low-altitude and 59.4% (95% CI: 52.68–66.17%) in those living in high-altitude regions. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that living in low-altitude region (P < 0.001, OR = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.04–0.12) was associated with lower risk of depression, while perception of poor health status (P < 0.001, OR = 3.86, 95% CI: 1.98–7.54) and having insomnia (P < 0.001, OR = 4.76, 95% CI: 2.99–7.56) were associated with higher risk of depression. QOL was significantly lower in physical (F(1,632) = 35.421, P < 0.001), psychological (F(1,632) = 20.777, P < 0.001), social (F(1,632) = 8.169, P < 0.001) and environmental domains (F(1,632) = 11.861, P < 0.001) in those with depression.

Conclusion: Depression was common in older nursing home residents especially those living in the high-altitude region. Considering the negative impact of depression on QOL and functional outcomes, routine screening and timely treatment of depression should be implemented in this population.
Robotic Home-Based Rehabilitation Systems Design: From a Literature Review to a Conceptual Framework for Community-Based Remote Therapy During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Akbari Aylar , Haghverd Faezeh , Behbahani Saeed
Published: June 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the higher susceptibility of post-stroke patients to infection calls for extra safety precautions. Despite the imposed restrictions, early neurorehabilitation cannot be postponed due to its paramount importance for improving motor and functional recovery chances. Utilizing accessible state-of-the-art technologies, home-based rehabilitation devices are proposed as a sustainable solution in the current crisis. In this paper, a comprehensive review on developed home-based rehabilitation technologies of the last 10 years (2011–2020), categorizing them into upper and lower limb devices and considering both commercialized and state-of-the-art realms. Mechatronic, control, and software aspects of the system are discussed to provide a classified roadmap for home-based systems development. Subsequently, a conceptual framework on the development of smart and intelligent community-based home rehabilitation systems based on novel mechatronic technologies is proposed. In this framework, each rehabilitation device acts as an agent in the network, using the internet of things (IoT) technologies, which facilitates learning from the recorded data of the other agents, as well as the tele-supervision of the treatment by an expert. The presented design paradigm based on the above-mentioned leading technologies could lead to the development of promising home rehabilitation systems, which encourage stroke survivors to engage in under-supervised or unsupervised therapeutic activities.