bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual differences in cognitive offloading: a comparison of intention offloading, pattern copy, and short-term memory capacity
Authors: Meyerhoff Hauke S. , Grinschgl Sandra , Papenmeier Frank , Gilbert Sam J.
Published: April 2021

The cognitive load of many everyday life tasks exceeds known limitations of short-term memory. One strategy to compensate for information overload is cognitive offloading which refers to the externalization of cognitive processes such as reminder setting instead of memorizing. There appears to be remarkable variance in offloading behavior between participants which poses the question whether there is a common factor influencing offloading behavior across different tasks tackling short-term memory processes. To pursue this question, we studied individual differences in offloading behavior between two well-established offloading paradigms: the intention offloading task which tackles memory for intentions and the pattern copy task which tackles continuous short-term memory load. Our study also included an unrelated task measuring short-term memory capacity. Each participant completed all tasks twice on two consecutive days in order to obtain reliability scores. Despite high reliability scores, individual differences in offloading behavior were uncorrelated between the two offloading tasks. In both tasks, however, individual differences in offloading behavior were correlated with the individual differences in an unrelated short-term memory task. Our results therefore show that offloading behavior cannot simply be explained in terms of a single common factor driving offloading behavior across tasks. We discuss the implications of this finding for future research investigating the interrelations of offloading behavior across different tasks.
In vitro gastrointestinal digestion of a bisdemethoxycurcumin-rich Curcuma longa extract and its oral bioavailability in rats
Authors: Sudeep Venkataramana Heggar , Gouthamchandra Kuluvar , Chandrappa Siddappa , Naveen Puttaswamy , Reethi Budanuru , Venkatakrishna Karempudi , Shyamprasad Kodimule
Published: April 2021

Background

Nonetheless curcumin has potential health benefits, its low bioavailability limits the application of conventional turmeric extract with curcumin as major curcuminoid. This is a comparative study to assess the stability, bioaccessibility and biological activity of BDMC in standardized C. longa extract (REVERC3) relative to curcumin in regular turmeric extract (RTE). Here we report the preparation of a standardized Curcuma longa extract (REVERC3™) standardized to contain 75 ± 5 w/w % bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC), 1.2 ± 0.8 w/w % curcumin and 10 ± 5 w/w % demethoxycurcumin (DMC). The turmeric extracts were subjected to in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and the curcuminoids in undigested and digested samples were analyzed using HPLC to determine the bioaccessibility. Further, the undigested and digested samples were evaluated for lipase inhibition and antioxidant activities. Male Wistar rats were administered with single dose (1000 mg/kg) of standardized C. longa extract and RTE to determine the plasma concentration of BDMC and curcumin respectively at different time points using LCMS/MS.

Results

The bioaccessibility of BDMC was significantly higher than curcumin (p < 0.05). BDMC was found superior to curcumin having significant lipase inhibitory effect (p < 0.01), ABTS radical scavenging (p < 0.05), and nitric oxide scavenging activities (p < 0.01). Interestingly, the relative bioavailability of BDMC in standardized C. longa extract was 18.76 compared to curcumin. The Cmax of BDMC was 4.4-fold higher than curcumin.

Conclusion

BDMC is reported to have higher bioaccessibility and bioavailability than curcumin. Our findings rationalize use of BDMC-enriched standardized C. longa extract for improved physiological benefits counteracting the regular turmeric extract with less bioavailable curcumin as major curcuminoid.
Simple and efficient method for the quantification of antiepileptic drugs in human plasma by using magnetic graphene oxide-β-cyclodextrin composite as a sorbent
Authors: Palakeeti Babji , Reddy K. Vijendar , Gobi K. Vengatajalabathy , Rao Pothuraju Nageswara , Chinta Jugun Prakash
Published: April 2021

Background

In recent days, solid-phase extraction methods are widely utilized for the extraction of drug molecules from plasma samples due to their easy operating procedures and low matrix effect. The trace-level solid-phase extraction of three structurally related antiepileptic drugs brivaracetam (BVC), eslicarbazepine acetate (ESL), and carbamazepine (CBZ) was investigated by using a magnetic porous material graphene oxide-β-cyclodextrin (MGO-CD). Morphology, magnetic properties, and structure of the synthesized MGO-CD were characterized by using FT-IR, SEM, XRD, and VSM.

Results

Solid-phase extraction (SPE) methods were used to extract the analytes from human plasma. Different extraction solvents such as acetonitrile (ACN), methanol (MeOH), acetone, chloroform (CHCl3), tertiary butyl diethyl ether (TBDE), and ethyl acetate (EtOAc) with variable polarities were used to extract drug molecules from MGO-CD. The linearity analysis showed good correlation coefficient values (R2) of 0.9989, 0.9995, and 0.9982 for BVC, ESL, and CBZ respectively. The LOD and LOQ ranges were found to be 6.14–28.32 ng mL−1 and 20.45–94.31 ng mL−1 respectively.

Conclusion

The high accuracy and precision made the developed HPLC method with MGO-CD a suitable alternative for the bioequivalence study of BVC, ESL, and CBZ in human plasma. This developed HPLC-UV method has good efficiency for recoveries and good linearity and is simple to handle. And also, it gave low retention time for the three antiepileptic drugs within 8 min. It provides high efficiency for the extraction of trace-level substances from human plasma.
Apalutamide in Patients With Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: Final Survival Analysis of the Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase III TITAN Study
Authors: Chi Kim N. , Chowdhury Simon , Bjartell Anders , Chung Byung Ha , Pereira de Santana Gomes Andrea J. , Given Robert , Juárez Alvaro , Merseburger Axel S. , Özgüroğlu Mustafa , Uemura Hirotsugu , Ye Dingwei , Brookman-May Sabine , Mundle Suneel D. , McCarthy Sharon A. , Larsen Julie S. , Sun Weili , Bevans Katherine B. , Zhang Ke , Bandyopadhyay Nibedita , Agarwal Neeraj
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE

The first interim analysis of the phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled TITAN study showed that apalutamide significantly improved overall survival (OS) and radiographic progression-free survival in patients with metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) receiving ongoing androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Herein, we report final efficacy and safety results after unblinding and placebo-to-apalutamide crossover.

METHODS

Patients with mCSPC (N = 1,052) were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive apalutamide (240 mg QD) or placebo plus ADT. After unblinding in January 2019, placebo-treated patients were allowed to receive apalutamide. Efficacy end points were updated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional-hazards model without formal statistical retesting and adjustment for multiplicity. Change from baseline in Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate total score was assessed.

RESULTS

With a median follow-up of 44.0 months, 405 OS events had occurred and 208 placebo-treated patients (39.5%) had crossed over to apalutamide. The median treatment duration was 39.3 (apalutamide), 20.2 (placebo), and 15.4 months (crossover). Compared with placebo, apalutamide plus ADT significantly reduced the risk of death by 35% (median OS not reached v 52.2 months; hazard ratio, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.53 to 0.79; P < .0001) and by 48% after adjustment for crossover (hazard ratio, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.42 to 0.64; P < .0001). Apalutamide plus ADT delayed second progression-free survival and castration resistance ( P < .0001 for both). Health-related quality of life, per total Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate, in both groups was maintained through the study. Safety was consistent with previous reports.

CONCLUSION

The final analysis of TITAN confirmed that, despite crossover, apalutamide plus ADT improved OS, delayed castration resistance, maintained health-related quality of life, and had a consistent safety profile in a broad population of patients with mCSPC.
A Liquid Africa
Authors: Eshun Ekow
Published: April 2021

This essay coins the term liquid Africa to describe the continent as protean and fluid, a convergence point of diverse ideas and influences, shaped by the tidal wash of local, regional, and international cultural influences. The notion of a liquid Africa opposes long-standing representations of the continent in the Western imaginary as a homogenous landmass sunk in a perpetual past, suspended outside progress, and the antithesis of modernity. Through study of Samuel Bazawule's short film Diasporadical Trilogía (2017) and a number of other recent films primarily by creative practitioners of African origin, liquidity is addressed here as a curatorial category, denoting a shared versatility of practice, and in aesthetic, geographic, and temporal terms. Aesthetic strategies such as the use of water as a thematic device and of music to weave a tapestry of auditory affinities across place and time act as means of conjuring narratives of collective memory, of multiple pasts always within reach of the present, across the African diaspora. Finally, the essay considers how Diasporadical Trilogía in particular embraces fantasy as a liberatory form, a means of resistance to notions of Enlightenment progress, and a route toward an epistemic decentering based on Africa's vast cosmology of myths and beliefs.
dancing among the watery folds
Authors: DeFrantz Thomas F.
Published: April 2021

This essay explores conceptual terms that might surround the dancing within watery folds of “liquid blackness.” A speculative invention, the essay proposes a shifting status of water-in-motion as a register for considering black faith and worldmaking through dancing. Written from a movement artist's perspective, the essay provokes with speculative formations that reveal citational activities always evident in black performance.
Safely achieving single prolonged breath-holds of > 5 minutes for radiotherapy in the prone, front crawl position
Authors: Parkes MJ , De Neve Wilfried , Vakaet Vincent , Heyes Geoffrey , Jackson Timothy , Delaney Richard , Kirby Gavin , Green Stuart , Kilby Warren , Cashmore Jason , Ghafoor Qamar , Clutton-Brock Thomas
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Breast cancer radiotherapy is increasingly delivered supine with multiple, short breath-holds. There may be heart and lung sparing advantages for locoregional breast cancer of both prone treatment and in a single breath-hold. We test here whether single prolonged breath-holds are possible in the prone, front crawl position.

Methods:

19 healthy volunteers were trained to deliver supine, single prolonged breath-holds with pre-oxygenation and hypocapnia. We tested whether all could achieve the same durations in the prone, front crawl position.

Results:

19 healthy volunteers achieved supine, single prolonged breath-holds for mean of 6.2 ± 0.3 min. All were able to hold safely for the same duration while prone (6.1 ± 0.2 min ns. by paired ANOVA). With prone, the increased weight on the chest did not impede chest inflation, nor the ability to hold air in the chest. Thus, the rate of chest deflation (mean anteroposterior deflation movement of three craniocaudally arranged surface markers on the spinal cord) was the same (1.2 ± 0.2, 2.0 ± 0.4 and 1.2 ± 0.4 mm/min) as found previously during supine prolonged breath-holds. No leakage of carbon dioxide or air was detectable into the facemask.

Conclusion:

Single prolonged (>5 min) breath-holds are equally possible in the prone, front crawl position.

Advances in knowledge:

Prolonged breath-holds in the front crawl position are possible and have the same durations as in the supine position. Such training would therefore be feasible for some patients with breast cancer requiring loco-regional irradiation. It would have obvious advantages for hypofractionation.
Huertos ecodidácticos: percepciones sobre formación de profesorado y futuros docentes.
Authors: Orenes Cárceles José , Ayuso Fernández Enrique , Fernández Díaz Manuel , Egea-Fernández José María
Published: April 2021

La utilización por el profesorado de Ciencias de los huertos escolares sigue en aumento en nuestro contexto al tratarse de un recurso con gran potencial educativo, que permite a los estudiantes poner en práctica el conocimiento escolar, facilita el desarrollo de procesos de investigación, mejora las relaciones entre participantes y es apropiado para el trabajo interdisciplinar. En nuestra investigación hemos analizado la demanda de formación en este campo de docentes en ejercicio y de estudiantes de Grado de Educación Primaria mediante cuestionarios con preguntas cerradas y de tipo Likert. Posteriormente, tras un curso formativo desde el planteamiento de trabajos de indagación, hemos analizado las propuestas llevadas a cabo por los futuros docentes en aulas de Primaria y comparado sus demandas formativas tras sus intervenciones (con un análisis estadístico descriptivo y prueba de significatividad). Los resultados destacan el alto nivel de motivación, la utilidad de la participación activa de escolares y la necesidad de formación específica en aspectos técnicos (técnicas agrícolas, cultivos, semillas, suelos, etc.) y didácticos (uso escolar, actividades, su planificación y evaluación) que desarrollen el currículo, no sólo desde las Ciencias de la Naturaleza, sino desde todas las áreas y que supongan un avance en las competencias del alumnado.
¿Podemos cultivar este suelo? Una secuencia didáctica para futuros maestros contextualizada en el huerto.
Authors: Zuazagoitia Rey-Baltar Daniel , Aragón Lourdes , Ruiz González Aritz , Gozalbo Marcia Eugenio
Published: April 2021

En este trabajo se describe el diseño de una Secuencia de Enseñanza-Aprendizaje (SEA) contextualizada en el Huerto Ecodidáctico (HED) y enfocada a mejorar la comprensión del modelo científico de suelo en los maestros de Infantil y Primaria en formación inicial. La SEA presenta una orientación constructivista que combina el enfoque de cambio conceptual y la estrategia de enseñanza-aprendizaje por indagación. Está estructurada en tres fases, y en la central, los estudiantes llevan a cabo un diagnóstico del estado de salud del suelo del HED universitario siguiendo un protocolo de ciencia ciudadana, que se ha integrado para promover la realización de prácticas científicas en el proceso de reconstrucción del modelo mental de suelo. Se apuntala teóricamente el diseño de la secuencia, entre otros sobre el análisis epistemológico y las demandas de aprendizaje, y se presenta un análisis prospectivo (n=54) mediante fenomenografía de las concepciones de suelo inicial y final de los estudiantes. Se observa que: (1) inicialmente, el alumnado presenta modelos estáticos y una visión utilitarista del suelo, (2) la SEA facilita progresos en el aprendizaje, sobre todo en cuanto a comprensión de los componentes del suelo, y (3) la necesidad de incidir en un modelo ecosistémico y de suelo como recurso no renovable. Este estudio refuerza la importancia de emplear contextos reales y situaciones significativas en la enseñanza de las ciencias, tales como los HEDs
Estudio de la competencia mediática frente al impacto de los youtubers en los menores españoles
Authors: Conde Manuel Antonio , Delgado-Ponce Águeda
Published: April 2021

Los youtubers aglutinan a miles de seguidores en YouTube, su cercanía y la interactividad con sus seguidores son clave para mantener una comunidad que en muchas ocasiones se hacen dependientes de estos, ya que para muchos menores, se convierten en el único medio audiovisual, y sus padres en la mayoría de los casos no conocen el comportamiento de estos en línea. Tras la revisión teórica sobre redes sociales, las familias y los menores frente a Internet y YouTube y la competencia mediática de estas, con el objetivo de analizar la competencia mediática de los padres y la percepción que estos tienen sobre el impacto que producen los youtubers en sus hijos, realizamos un trabajo de campo a través de un instrumento de entrevista semiestructurada, utilizando un enfoque de estudio cualitativo, entrevistando a padres de la muestra seleccionada con menores con edades comprendidas entre los 9 y 15 años. Los resultados obtenidos fueron analizados con una herramienta de rejillas de creación propia y el sorfware de Atlas.Ti. Las principales conclusiones han permitido advertir que a pesar del conocimiento que tienen las familias sobre el consumo mediático de sus hijos, no asumen un papel activo en la protección de estos.
Proyecto LingüisTIC: impacto de la Plataforma Walinwa sobre la competencia en comunicación lingüística del alumnado en situación de desventaja sociocultural
Authors: Sánchez Castro Susana , Pascual Sevillano Mª Ángeles
Published: April 2021

La competencia lingüística es una competencia transversal que afecta a todas las áreas del currículo y se manifiesta en todos los ámbitos en que se desenvuelve el alumnado. Tiene una relación estrecha con todas las competencias, áreas y ámbitos. En este trabajo se evalúa el impacto del empleo de la plataforma educativa Walinwa mediante la cual se trabaja la competencia en comunicación lingüística en la etapa de educación primaria. Se emplea la metodología basada en juegos digitales educativos sobre una muestra de 81 estudiantes. Se sistematiza un procedimiento de aplicación (Proyecto LingüisTIC) con selección de actividades de juego en función de las carencias de los estudiantes. Los resultados de los informes aportados por el propio programa son relevantes. Tras aplicar los correspondientes estadísticos descriptivos y las diferencias de medias entre el pretest y el postest, se evidencia una diferencia estadísticamente significativa, resultando el programa altamente eficaz para la mejora de la competencia en comunicación lingüística y comprobando la importancia del número de sesiones de aplicación.
Hands of the World intercultural project: developing student teachers' digital competences through contextualised learning
Authors: Tonner-Saunders Sharon , Shimi Jill
Published: April 2021

This paper reports on the impact on student teachers’ professional skills, knowledge and attitudes of engaging in the eTwinning international Hands of the World (HOTW) project which connects over 2000 students and their teachers in 50 schools across the world to undertake a wide range of educational collaborative work, supported by digital and online technologies. The University of Dundee’s HOTW project won the eTwinning prize for the best project two years running and is the only university to have won this annual prize. Student teachers are working in a world where digital technology is firmly embedded and undergoing rapid expansion and change. This study examined the experiences of student teachers as they engaged in a global project to develop their knowledge and understanding of intercultural learning using ICT. An explanatory sequential mixed method design analyzed data publicly available on YouTube™ and Padlet™. Two main data sets were used: responses to professional development webinars and reflections on participating in the project. Data were analyzed thematically focusing on ICT competence, pedagogy and relevance. Participation in the project enhanced the students' ICT competence and confidence to use and explore technology for current and future teaching practice through contextualization and social learning. Our analysis enabled us to identify that the Covid-19 lockdown had a positive impact on the students' learning due to time, space, and relevance. This paper demonstrates that engagement in a contextualized project enabled student teachers to develop their ICT competences and that for many, lockdown provided a conducive learning environment.
Consulta de enfermagem pré-procedimento de cateterismo cardíaco: avaliação da satisfação do paciente
Authors: Nascimento Rakel Karollyne Moreira , Andrade Karla Biancha Silva , Camerini Flavia Giron , Franco Andrezza Serpa , Marins Ana Lúcia Cascardo , Naves Camila Benicá de Oliveira Carvalho
Published: April 2021

Objetivo: avaliar a satisfação dos pacientes em relação à consulta de enfermagem prévia ao procedimento de cateterismo cardíaco. Método: estudo quantitativo, descritivo, realizado na hemodinâmica de um hospital universitário no estado do Rio de Janeiro, com a participação de 38 pacientes que responderam ao questionário da pesquisa, aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: predominou o sexo masculino, 20 (53%), com faixa etária acima dos 60 anos, 23 (60%). A hipertensão arterial foi a comorbidade mais prevalente, 33 (87%), tendo a angina como motivo principal, 22 (58%). A satisfação do usuário com a consulta de enfermagem foi comprovada por meio do alto grau de concordância do questionário aplicado, que apontou a afirmativa “muito satisfeita” com média acima de 90%. Conclusão: a consulta de enfermagem implementada demonstrou ser relevante, corroborando para melhor compreensão do exame, maior qualidade de informação e controle do nível de ansiedade, fato esse evidenciado pela satisfação do usuário com a consulta.
MECANISMOS DE QUEIXAS E RECLAMAÇÕES PARA GESTÃO DE CONFLITOS NA CONSTRUÇÃO DE LINHAS DE TRANSMISSÃO
Authors: Balsinhas Rafaela Alves da Silva , De Castro Elza Maria Neffa Vieira
Published: April 2021

O presente trabalho parte da premissa que os conflitos ambientais ocorrem ou podem ser acirrados quando da implantação de empreendimentos como os sistemas de transmissão de energia elétrica. Devido às suas características, esses sistemas podem ser extensos e afetar diferentes espaços geográficos, ecossistemas biológicos e processos socioculturais devendo, portanto, ser alvo de atenção na gestão ambiental. Dentre as medidas ambientais adotadas para prevenir e minimizar os impactos negativos e potencializar os positivos no âmbito do licenciamento ambiental, salienta-se o conjunto de estratégias de comunicação social que tem como finalidade a criação de um canal de comunicação com o público, direta ou indiretamente afetado, partindo da divulgação de informações qualificadas às principais partes interessadas sobre o empreendimento e seus impactos. Como parte importante deste conjunto, destacam-se os mecanismos de queixas e reclamações (MQR) para tratativa e formalização das manifestações da população, sendo o sistema de ouvidoria usualmente considerado o principal canal de comunicação entre a sociedade e o empreendedor. Nessa perspectiva, o estudo é descritivo e utiliza-se de abordagem quali-quantitativa para analisar o sistema de ouvidoria do maior sistema de transmissão de energia elétrica brasileiro durante sua fase de obras. Esta análise pode auxiliar a identificação de danos ambientais sistêmicos não considerados no planejamento, além de possibilitar a verificação da efetividade das medidas de controle ambiental, contribuindo no entendimento de como este tipo de projeto afeta a qualidade de vida das populações.
A GERAÇÃO DISTRIBUÍDA E A REDUÇÃO DE CARBONO NA MATRIZ ELÉTRICA BRASILEIRA
Authors: Abranches Felix Cardoso Junior Ricardo , Schwertner Hoffmann Alessandra , Barbosa Leonardo De Oliveira , Coutinho Roberta De Azevedo Pires Soares
Published: April 2021

As últimas conferências mundiais de meio ambiente e mudanças climáticas tiveram papel fundamental para difusão e inserção das energias renováveis na matriz elétrica mundial. Nesse contexto, as fontes renováveis de geração distribuída se destacam por apresentarem vantagens tanto no âmbito econômico quanto socioambiental. Este estudo analisa o contexto nacional e internacional da geração distribuída de energia solar fotovoltaica, através da comparação entre eles e proposição de estratégias para uma maior penetração e difusão desta modalidade de geração. É realizada também uma análise temporal da emissão de carbono na matriz elétrica, baseada principalmente na geração termelétrica, e verificada a projeção de emissões com base na evolução da geração distribuída, segundo o PDE 2026. A fim de materializar a redução da emissão, foi parametrizada e calculada a área em hectares de Mata Atlântica necessária para sequestrar dado volume de gás carbônico equivalente. As análises realizadas visam ampliar os estudos para expansão da participação da geração distribuída solar fotovoltaica na matriz elétrica.
INVESTIGAÇÕES BRASILEIRAS EM BUSCA DE TECIDOS MOLES PRESERVADOS EM FÓSSEIS
Authors: Alves Everton Fernando
Published: April 2021

Duas subáreas da Paleontologia que têm se destacado são a Tafonomia experimental e, especialmente, a Tafonomia molecular, que se baseia em diferentes técnicas para compreender não só os processos de fossilização de tecidos moles, mas também para identificar e caracterizar biomoléculas antigas originais. Esta perspectiva profissional traz definições de Paleontologia molecular e tecidos moles, faz um apanhado histórico das principais investigações brasileiras nesse campo e traça uma perspectiva futura sobre as possíveis abordagens nessa área.
Loss-of-function of Fbxo10, encoding a post-translational regulator of BCL2 in lymphomas, has no discernible effect on BCL2 or B lymphocyte accumulation in mice
Authors: Masle-Farquhar Etienne , Russell Amanda , Li Yangguang , Zhu Fen , Rui Lixin , Brink Robert , Goodnow Christopher C.
Published: April 2021

Regulation of the anti-apoptotic BCL2 protein determines cell survival and is frequently abnormal in B cell lymphomas. An evolutionarily conserved post-translational mechanism for over-expression of BCL2 in human B cell lymphomas and the BCL2 paralogue CED-9 in Caenorhabditis elegans results from loss-of-function mutations in human FBXO10 and its C.elegans paralogue DRE-1, a BCL2/CED-9-binding subunit of the SKP-CULLIN-FBOX (SCF) ubiquitin ligase. Here, we tested the role of FBXO10 in BCL2 regulation by producing mice with two different CRISPR/Cas9-engineered Fbxo10 mutations: an Asp54Lys (E54K) missense mutation in the FBOX domain and a Cys55SerfsTer55 frameshift (fs) truncating mutation. Mice homozygous for either mutant allele were born at the expected Mendelian frequency and appeared normal in body weight and appearance as adults. Spleen B cells from homozygous mutant mice did not have increased BCL2 protein, nor were the numbers of mature B cells or germinal centre B cells increased as would be expected if BCL2 was increased. Other lymphocyte subsets that are also regulated by BCL2 levels also displayed no difference in frequency in homozygous Fbxo10 mutant mice. These results support one of two conclusions: either FBXO10 does not regulate BCL2 in mice, or it does so redundantly with other ubiquitin ligase complexes. Possible candidates for the latter include FBXO11 or ARTS-XIAP. The difference between the role of FBXO10 in regulating BCL2 protein levels in C. elegans and in human DLBCL, relative to single-gene deficient mouse leukocytes, should be further investigated.
Dependence in instrumental activities of daily living and its implications for older adults’ oral health
Authors: Saintrain Maria Vieira de Lima , Saintrain Suzanne Vieira , de Oliveira Branco July Grassiely , Peixoto Caldas José Manuel , Lourenço Caroline Barbosa , Vieira-Meyer Anya Pimentel Gomes Fernandes
Published: April 2021

We aimed to assess the association between dependence in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and oral health in older adults. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 280 people aged ≥60 years served at public primary health care centers in Northeastern Brazil. Sociodemographic, oral discomfort and general health data were collected. The Lawton and Brody scale were used to assess IADL. This research adheres to the STROBE checklist. Most participants were married (n = 139; 49.6%), women (n = 182; 65.0%) and retired (n = 212; 75.7%). A total of 37 (13.2%) older adults had some degree of dependence in IADL. Dependence in IADL was associated with: retirement (p<0.040), poor general health (p = 0.002), speech problems (p = 0.014), use of medications (p = 0.021), difficulty chewing and swallowing food (p = 0.011), voice changes (p = 0.044), edentulism (p = 0.011), use of toothbrush (p<0.001), use of toothpaste (p<0.001), and visit to the dentist in the previous year (p = 0.020). Functional disability was associated with older age, cardiovascular diseases, speech problems, chewing and swallowing difficulties, use of medication and brushing deficiency. The functional dependence in IADL can be considered an indicator of oral health status in older adults.
The process of developing dynamic capabilities: The conceptualization attempt and the results of empirical studies
Authors: Cyfert Szymon , Chwiłkowska-Kubala Anna , Szumowski Witold , Miśkiewicz Radosław
Published: April 2021

While most researchers interested in the concept of dynamic capabilities focus their attention on analyzing how companies transform their resources to compete in their environment, the process of developing dynamic capabilities is treated as a marginal issue. Although the literature suggests various approaches to developing dynamic capabilities, they are formulated in general terms, and doubts can be raised about the links between actions. There is also a lack of empirical research indicating the links between activities in the process of developing dynamic capabilities and their influence on the effectiveness of an organization. The aim of the study is to formulate a proposal for a model of the process of developing dynamic capabilities aimed at increasing the economic effectiveness of a company and to determine the links between the activities in the model. The theoretical contribution of the paper consists in presenting a model of the process of developing dynamic capabilities aimed at increasing the economic effectiveness of the company. The results presented in the paper refer to an empirical examination of the model of developing dynamic capabilities, covering five activities: searching for opportunities; knowledge management and learning; coordination; configuration and reconfiguration; and organizational adaptation. The study also includes an examination of the possible impact the components of the dynamic capabilities building process have on a company’s performance. The study uses the survey method and data was obtained from top managers. The conclusion, based on data from 471 Polish companies, was made using structural equation modelling. The results of the empirical research suggest that the individual activities in the process of developing dynamic capabilities are interconnected, and through mutual interactions and couplings, they positively affect the economic effectiveness of an enterprise. The results indicate that searching for opportunities is the precursor, and the main factor influencing the other activities in the process, which suggests that managers should focus on improving activities in this area.
Risk factors for COVID-19 mortality: The effect of convalescent plasma administration
Authors: Salazar Martín R. , González Soledad E. , Regairaz Lorena , Ferrando Noelia S. , González Martínez Verónica V. , Carrera Ramos Patricia M. , Muñoz Laura , Pesci Santiago A. , Vidal Juan M. , Kreplak Nicolás , Estenssoro Elisa
Published: April 2021

Background

Convalescent plasma, widely utilized in viral infections that induce neutralizing antibodies, has been proposed for COVID-19, and preliminary evidence shows that it might have beneficial effect. Our objective was to determine the risk factors for 28-days mortality in patients who received convalescent plasma for COVID-19 compared to those who did not, who were admitted to hospitals in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, throughout the pandemic.

Methods

This is a multicenter, retrospective cohort study of 2-month duration beginning on June 1, 2020, including unselected, consecutive adult patients with diagnosed COVID-19, admitted to 215 hospitals with pneumonia. Epidemiological and clinical variables were registered in the Provincial Hospital Bed Management System. Convalescent plasma was supplied as part of a centralized, expanded access program.

Results

We analyzed 3,529 patients with pneumonia, predominantly male, aged 62±17, with arterial hypertension and diabetes as main comorbidities; 51.4% were admitted to the ward, 27.1% to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and 21.7% to the ICU with mechanical ventilation requirement (ICU-MV). 28-day mortality was 34.9%; and was 26.3%, 30.1% and 61.4% for ward, ICU and ICU-MV patients. Convalescent plasma was administered to 868 patients (24.6%); their 28-day mortality was significantly lower (25.5% vs. 38.0%, p<0.001). No major adverse effects occurred. Logistic regression analysis identified age, ICU admission with and without MV requirement, diabetes, and preexistent cardiovascular disease as independent predictors of 28-day mortality, whereas convalescent plasma administration acted as a protective factor.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the administration of convalescent plasma in COVID-19 pneumonia admitted to the hospital might be associated with improved outcomes.
Sex differences in the case-fatality rates for COVID-19—A comparison of the age-related differences and consistency over seven countries
Authors: Green Manfred S. , Nitzan Dorit , Schwartz Naama , Niv Yaron , Peer Victoria
Published: April 2021

Background

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, it was noted that males seemed to have higher case-fatality rates than females. We examined the magnitude and consistency of the sex differences in age-specific case-fatality rates (CFRs) in seven countries.

Methods

Data on the cases and deaths from COVID-19, by sex and age group, were extracted from the national official agencies from Denmark, England, Israel, Italy, Spain, Canada and Mexico. Age-specific CFRs were computed for males and females separately. The ratio of the male to female CFRs were computed and meta-analytic methods were used to obtained pooled estimates of the male to female ratio of the CFRs over the seven countries, for all age-groups. Meta-regression and sensitivity analysis were conducted to evaluate the age and country contribution to differences.

Results

The CFRs were consistently higher in males at all ages. The pooled M:F CFR ratios were 1.71, 1.88, 2.11, 2.11, 1.84, 1.78 and 1.49, for ages 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, 70–79, 80+ respectively. In meta-regression, age group and country were associated with the heterogeneity in the CFR ratios.

Conclusions

The sex differences in the age-specific CFRs are intriguing. Sex differences in the incidence and mortality have been found in many infectious diseases. For COVID-19, factors such as sex differences in the prevalence of underlying diseases may play a part in the CFR differences. However, the consistently greater case-fatality rates in males at all ages suggests that sex-related factors impact on the natural history of the disease. This could provide important clues as to the mechanisms underlying the severity of COVID-19 in some patients.
Lung development, repair and cancer: A study on the role of MMP20 gene in adenocarcinoma
Authors: Mok Pooi Ling , Anandasayanam Arun Neela Kumar , Oscar David Hernandez Maradiaga , Tong Jiabei , Farhana Aisha , Khan Mohammed Safwan Ali , Sivaprakasam Gothai , Koh Avin Ee-Hwan , Alzahrani Badr
Published: April 2021

Multiple matrix metalloproteinases have significant roles in tissue organization during lung development, and repair. Imbalance of proteinases may lead to chronic inflammation, changes in tissue structure, and are also highly associated to cancer development. The role of MMP20 is not well studied in lung organogenesis, however, it was previously shown to be present at high level in lung adenocarcinoma. The current study aimed to identify the functional properties of MMP20 on cell proliferation and motility in a lung adenocarcinoma in vitro cell model, and relate the interaction of MMP20 with other molecular signalling pathways in the lung cells after gaining tumoral properties. In this study, two different single guide RNA (sgRNAs) that specifically targeted on MMP20 sites were transfected into human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells by using CRISPR-Cas method. Following that, the changes of PI3-K, survivin, and MAP-K mRNA gene expression were determined by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). The occurrence of cell death was also examined by Acridine Orange/Propidium Iodide double staining. Meanwhile, the motility of the transfected cells was evaluated by wound healing assay. All the data were compared with non-transfected cells as a control group. Our results demonstrated that the transfection of the individual sgRNAs significantly disrupted the proliferation of the A549 cell line through suppression in the gene expression of PI3-K, survivin, and MAP-K. When compared to non-transfected cells, both experimental cell groups showed reduction in the migration rate, as reflected by the wider gaps in the wound healing assay. The current study provided preliminary evidence that MMP20 could have regulatory role on stemness and proliferative genes in the lung tissues and affect the cell motility. It also supports the notion that targeting MMP20 could be a potential treatment mode for halting cancer progression.
Current trends in the application of causal inference methods to pooled longitudinal observational infectious disease studies—A protocol for a methodological systematic review
Authors: Hufstedler Heather , Matthay Ellicott C. , Rahman Sabahat , de Jong Valentijn M. T. , Campbell Harlan , Gustafson Paul , Debray Thomas , Jaenisch Thomas , Maxwell Lauren , Bärnighausen Till
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Pooling (or combining) and analysing observational, longitudinal data at the individual level facilitates inference through increased sample sizes, allowing for joint estimation of study- and individual-level exposure variables, and better enabling the assessment of rare exposures and diseases. Empirical studies leveraging such methods when randomization is unethical or impractical have grown in the health sciences in recent years. The adoption of so-called “causal” methods to account for both/either measured and/or unmeasured confounders is an important addition to the methodological toolkit for understanding the distribution, progression, and consequences of infectious diseases (IDs) and interventions on IDs. In the face of the Covid-19 pandemic and in the absence of systematic randomization of exposures or interventions, the value of these methods is even more apparent. Yet to our knowledge, no studies have assessed how causal methods involving pooling individual-level, observational, longitudinal data are being applied in ID-related research. In this systematic review, we assess how these methods are used and reported in ID-related research over the last 10 years. Findings will facilitate evaluation of trends of causal methods for ID research and lead to concrete recommendations for how to apply these methods where gaps in methodological rigor are identified.

Methods and analysis

We will apply MeSH and text terms to identify relevant studies from EBSCO (Academic Search Complete, Business Source Premier, CINAHL, EconLit with Full Text, PsychINFO), EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science. Eligible studies are those that apply causal methods to account for confounding when assessing the effects of an intervention or exposure on an ID-related outcome using pooled, individual-level data from 2 or more longitudinal, observational studies. Titles, abstracts, and full-text articles, will be independently screened by two reviewers using Covidence software. Discrepancies will be resolved by a third reviewer. This systematic review protocol has been registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020204104).
Analysis of residential satisfaction: An empirical evidence from neighbouring communities of Rohingya camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Biswas Bangkim , Ahsan Md. Nasif , Mallick Bishawjit
Published: April 2021

This study aims to understand the level of residential satisfaction of the host communities’ aftermath of the influx of Rohingya in Bangladesh. A total of 151 household heads were randomly interviewed from Ukhiya and Ramu Upazila of Cox’s Bazar district, Bangladesh. A residential satisfaction index is developed with a total of twenty-two variables comprised of four components- social environment (SE), neighbourhood environment (NE), public services and facilities (PS&F), and dwelling units (DU). The coefficients of the components indicate that the PS&F, SE, and NE impact much on the overall residential satisfaction compare to the DU. The analysis demonstrates that the people who have tertiary level education, who is Muslim and whose work opportunities remain the same as before, are more satisfied, but older people are less satisfied than younger. Besides, the degradation of social harmony, livestock and agricultural land losses, and decreased wages were the significant causes of dissatisfaction. These findings may contribute to taking appropriate policies and programs for the host communities taken by the government and non-government organizations.
Characterization of genetically modified mice for phosphoglycerate mutase, a vitally-essential enzyme in glycolysis
Authors: Mikawa Takumi , Shibata Eri , Shimada Midori , Ito Ken , Ito Tomiko , Kanda Hiroaki , Takubo Keiyo , Shimada Atsuyoshi , Lleonart Matilde E. , Inagaki Nobuya , Yokode Masayuki , Kondoh Hiroshi
Published: April 2021

Glycolytic metabolism is closely involved in physiological homeostasis and pathophysiological states. Among glycolytic enzymes, phosphoglycerate mutase (PGAM) has been reported to exert certain physiological rolein vitro, whereas its impact on glucose metabolismin vivoremains unclear. Here, we report the characterization ofPgam1knockout mice. We observed that homozygous knockout mice ofPgam1were embryonic lethal. Although we previously reported that both PGAM-1 and -2 affect global glycolytic profile of cancersin vitro,in vivoglucose parameters were less affected both in the heterozygous knockout ofPgam1and inPgam2transgenic mice. Thus, the impact of PGAM onin vivoglucose metabolism is rather complex than expected before.
HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Knowledge, attitudes and counseling practices among physicians in Germany – A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Sammons Mary Katherine , Gaskins Matthew , Kutscha Frank , Nast Alexander , Werner Ricardo Niklas
Published: April 2021

Background

German statutory health insurance began covering the costs associated with HIV PrEP in September 2019; however, to bill for PrEP services, physicians in Germany must either be certified as HIV-specialists according to a nationwide quality assurance agreement, or, if they are non-HIV-specialists, have completed substantial further training in HIV/PrEP care. Given the insufficient implementation of PrEP, the aim of our study was to explore the potential to increase the number of non-HIV-specialists providing PrEP-related services.

Methods

We conducted an anonymous survey among a random sample of internists, general practitioners, dermatologists and urologists throughout Germany using a self-developed questionnaire. We calculated a knowledge score and an attitudes score from individual items in these two domains. Both scores ranged from 0–20, with high values representing good knowledge or positive attitudes. We also asked participants about the proportion of PrEP advice they provided proactively to men who have sex with men (MSM) and trans-persons who met the criteria to be offered PrEP.

Results

154 physicians completed the questionnaire. Self-assessed knowledge among HIV-specialists was greater than among non-HIV-specialists [Median knowledge score: 20.0 (IQR = 0.0) vs. 4.0 (IQR = 11.0), p<0.001]. Likewise, attitudes towards PrEP were more positive among HIV-specialists than non-HIV-specialists [Median attitudes score: 18.0 (IQR = 3.0) vs. 13.0 (IQR = 5.25), p<0.001]. The proportion of proactive advice on PrEP provided to at-risk MSM and trans-persons by HIV-specialists [Median: 30.0% (IQR = 63.5%)] was higher than that provided by non-HIV-specialists [Median: 0.0% (IQR = 11.3%), p<0.001]. However, the results of our multiple regression suggest the only independent predictor of proactive PrEP advice was the knowledge score, and not whether physicians were HIV-specialists or non-HIV-specialists.

Conclusions

These findings point to opportunities to improve PrEP implementation in individuals at risk of acquiring HIV. Targeted training, particularly for non-HIV-specialists, and the provision of patient-centered information material could help improve care, especially in rural areas.
Patient perspectives on how to demonstrate respect: Implications for clinicians and healthcare organizations
Authors: Bridges Celina , Duenas Devan M. , Lewis Hannah , Anderson Katherine , Opel Douglas J. , Wilfond Benjamin S. , Kraft Stephanie A.
Published: April 2021

Objective

Clinicians and healthcare organizations are ethically obligated to treat patients with respect, yet it is not clear what actions best demonstrate respect to patients. This exploratory qualitative study aimed to understand what actions on both an individual and organizational level effectively demonstrate respect for primary care patients.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with primary care patients in an integrated healthcare delivery system in Oregon and an integrated safety net health system in Colorado who were participating in a genomics implementation research study of a hereditary cancer screening program. We systematically coded interview transcripts using a coding framework developed based on iterative review of the interview guide and transcripts. We further analyzed the data coded with sub-codes relating to patients’ experiences with respect in healthcare using a descriptive content analysis approach.

Results

We interviewed 40 English-speaking (n = 30, 75%) and Spanish-speaking (n = 10, 25%) patients. Most interviewees identified as female (n = 35, 88%) and either Hispanic/Latino(a) (n = 17, 43%) or White or European American (n = 15, 38%). Interviewees identified two categories of efforts by individual clinicians that demonstrate respect: engaging with patients and being transparent. They identified five efforts by healthcare organizations: promoting safety and inclusivity, protecting patient privacy, communicating about scheduling, navigating financial barriers to care, and ensuring continuity of care.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that patients’ experiences of respect depend on efforts by individual clinicians as well as healthcare organizations. Our findings offer insight into how clinicians can build stronger partnerships with patients and how organizations can seek to promote access to care and patient safety and comfort. They also illustrate areas for future research and quality improvement to more effectively respect patients.