bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compulsão alimentar: uma análise da relação com os transtornos psicológicos da depressão e ansiedade
Authors: Albuquerque Andradina Lima de , Bahia Fernanda Candido de Carvalho , Maynard Dayanne da Costa
Published: December 2021

O Transtorno da Compulsão Alimentar Periódica é um dos transtornos alimentares que mais crescem em todo o mundo. É definido pela ingestão de alimentos em altas quantidades, em um curto período de tempo, seguido por sentimento de culpa e desconforto. O Transtorno da Compulsão Alimentar periódica está relacionado a vários transtornos psicológicos, dentre eles, a ansiedade e a depressão. A ansiedade é caracterizada por uma preocupação excessiva em relação a um evento de maneira exagerada, podendo estar associada ao medo com sintomas físicos. A depressão é identificada pelo humor deprimido, alteração no apetite, alteração no peso, sentimento de culpa e pensamentos de morte. O presente estudo teve como objetivo principal avaliar a relação da compulsão alimentar com os transtornos psicológicos da ansiedade e da depressão em mulheres. Trata-se de um estudo transversal e descritivo. A coleta de dados foi aplicada com 93 mulheres, na faixa etária de 20 a 50 anos, residentes nas regiões de Águas Claras e Guará, de forma online, através do Google Formulários, com questionários validados como a Escala de Compulsão periódica e Escala Hospitalar de ansiedade e depressão. A pesquisa teve como resultado uma relação entre o TCAP e ansiedade e depressão (30,6%) e mostrou que mesmo sem ter essa relação dos transtornos, houve um número elevado de mulheres com indicadores para transtornos psicológicos (69,4%). É imprescindível um acompanhamento multidisciplinar para ambos os transtornos, ressaltando o profissional nutricionista para o TCAP, para que atue de forma direta no tratamento e recuperação do estado nutricional do indivíduo.
MPolSys Modeler, a tool for computational modeling of linear polymer systems
Authors: Faria Filipe Morais Frade de , Leão Junior Reginaldo Gonçalves
Published: December 2021

The computational study of intermolecular relationships of a given material can be used as a route for predicting quantities impossible or difficult to be determined experimentally. Furthermore properties of new materials can also be predicted by techniques of this type, when they are still in the modeling phase. This technique reproduces the classical dynamic relationships between the constituent elements of the material, atoms or unicorpuscular approximations of molecules, from interaction potential models called force fields. This work aims to develop a tool that performs the composition of linear polymeric chain systems through a self-avoided walk. For this, the concept of self-experimentation of long walks (SAWLC) was used, together with the Python language to develop MpolSys Modeler. This tool is a non-overlapping polymer chain generator, which in turn generates outputs that can be used as input to Moltemplate. To validate the tool's results, experiments were carried out in which the numbers and polymerization chains of the simulated polymer were varied, observing the overlap or not of the molecules that make up the simulation. At the end of the simulations, there were positive results that indicate a promising usage of the tool for the creation of polymers with a high number of chains and degrees of polymerization.
Importância da Física Quântica para despertar o interesse pela Ciência
Authors: Martins Paulo Djalma , Schimiguel Juliano , Furletti Saulo , Junger Alex Paubel
Published: December 2021

Para os alunos, os primeiros contatos com ciências foram provavelmente estabelecidos na infância através dos meios de comunicação, na forma de imagens ou textos de ficção. Somente perto do ensino médio aparece o conhecimento sistemático, com leis, regras, convenções, etc. Em geral, os fenômenos físicos são apresentados como regidos por fórmulas matemáticas, sem a visão de conjunto, sem a história da ciência e seus personagens, sem a harmonia característica da natureza. Será que essa maneira de se ensinar e avaliar através de fórmulas desperta no aluno o interesse pela ciência? A ciência tem, entre outros, o objetivo de gerar conhecimento para entender, compreender e aproveitar os fenômenos do nosso mundo físico em prol do bem estar do homem. O tema deste artigo se fixa sobre a importância da Física Quântica no Ensino Médio e também para despertar no aluno do curto de Ciência da Computação o interesse pela ciência. Como metodologia, foi desenvolvida uma pesquisa qualitativa no sentido de uma pesquisa-ação como estratégia de trabalho, concebida com a finalidade de entender e analisar os conhecimentos prévios em Física Quântica dos alunos dos primeiros semestres do curso de Ciência da Computação da Universidade Ceunsp, propondo como intervenção, a realização de uma oficina de Física Quântica, com reflexão sobre sua capaciade de despertar nos estudantes o interesse pela ciência.
Adequação de macro e micronutrientes para pacientes submetidos à cirurgia bypass gástrico
Authors: Carvalho Josiete Chagas Macedo , Vieira Julia Cursino , Maynard Dayanne da Costa
Published: December 2021

Diante do aumento da prevalência da obesidade no mundo e consequente submissão à cirurgia bypass gástrico, evidenciou-se a necessidade da realização de acompanhamento nutricional constante dos pacientes pós cirurgia bariátrica para que se obtenham os resultados esperados do procedimento cirúrgico. Este estudo de revisão integrativa de literatura teve como objetivo apresentar as necessidades nutricionais e apontar o modelo de prato bariátrico como estratégia auxiliar para a ingestão adequada de macronutrientes e micronutrientes para pacientes submetidos a cirurgia bypass gástrico. Entretanto, se faz necessária a realização de estudos que validem a utilização desse instrumento. Por fim, o acompanhamento multidisciplinar regular é essencial para evitar o desenvolvimento de deficiências dos principais nutrientes observados ao longo da revisão.
Remoção de hábito de sucção labial com uso de placa lábio ativa: relato de caso
Authors: Carmo Fernanda Thomáz do , Brito Carolinie Martins de , Mendonça Lucas Francisco Arruda , Oliveira Laryssa Marques de Oliveira e , Cabral Emanoely Cristina Ipuchima , Soares Thiago Ferreira , Rêgo Jessica Tuane Maia , Oliveira Nayhane Cristine da Silva de , Meira Joyce de Figueiredo , Meira Gabriela de Figueiredo
Published: December 2021

Objetivo: Este trabalho tem como objetivo geral verificar a importância do diagnóstico de maloclusões, implicações clinicas e tratamento precoce por meio da ortodontia preventiva e interceptativa, abordando os benefícios do uso da PLA e realizando a remoção o habito de sucção labial pelo uso da mesma. Metodologia: Partindo da permissão do responsável da paciente por meio do Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido (TCLE) em partilhar sua imagem para devido fim, o presente estudo trata de um relato de caso clínico de cunho analítico descritivo (Pereira et al., 2018). Relato de Caso: Paciente do sexo feminino, 12 anos de idade, Padrão II por deficiência mandibular e maxilar, com hábito de sucção labial, vestibularização acentuada dos incisivos superiores. A terapia resultou na eliminação do hábito e melhora na inclinação dos incisivos superiores. Evitando tratamentos complexos futuros, dispondo melhoria e qualidade de vida para a paciente. Considerações Finais: Os hábitos bucais deletérios são fatores que levam as maloclusões em pacientes na dentadura mista. A Placa lábio ativa foi o tratamento interceptativo capaz de eliminar o hábito de sucção labial em um curto período de tempo.
Tratamentos fisioterapêuticos para bexiga neurogênica: uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Garcia Daniela Oliveira , Giroto Elen Thaís dos Santos , Costa Daniely Leal da
Published: December 2021

A Bexiga Neurogênica é classificada como uma disfunção do trato urinário inferior decorrente de interrupção das raízes nervosas, com alterações vesico-esfincterianas e distúrbios nas fases de enchimento e esvaziamento vesical. Na sua sintomatologia, se faz presente a urgência miccional, aumento na frequência da micção diurna, noctúria e, ainda, a ausência ou presença da incontinência urinária, que refletem tanto na saúde física quanto mental do portador e no seu conviver social. Considerando a sintomatologia da patologia, este estudo trata-se de uma revisão da literatura, que buscou elencar os tratamentos fisioterapêuticos disponíveis na literatura. Foram realizadas pesquisas nas bases de dados Cochrane, Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SciELO), LILACS, PhysiotherapyEvidenceDetabase (PEDro). Os resultados salientaram as técnicas fisioterapêuticas que apresentaram resultados positivos para a Bexiga Neurogênica, dentre elas, eletroestimulação em região sacral e nervos periféricos, estimulação elétrica interferencial, eletroacunputura, terapia combinada, treinamento dos músculos de sustentação pélvica e radiofrequência bipolar. Conclui-se que a fisioterapia se comprovou eficaz na sintomatologia da BN, com métodos facilmente aceitos e adaptáveis aos pacientes, proporcionando benefícios e melhor qualidade de vida desse público.
Analisis Dampak Penerapan Strategi Pengelolaan Terhadap Peningkatan Hasil Pengelolaan Wakaf Uang
Authors: Hendra  , Khonita Ana Mar’a
Published: December 2021

This study uses a descriptive qualitative method to analyze the strategy of the ACT Global Waqf Institution in managing cash waqf and determine the impact of implementing  strategic plan on the management of the ACT Global Waqf Institution's of cash waqf. The results of the study show that First, there are 3 strategic plans implemented by the Global Waqf Institute ACT, namely Creating an Ecosystem Program that touches from upstream to downstream, Managing cash waqf funds professionally, Conducting regular evaluations. Second, the impact of implementing strategic plans on the management of ACT Global Waqf cash waqf in 2017-2018 was very effective due to an increase in percentage in 2017 of 6.79% and in 2018 of 95.48%. However, in 2019 the impact of implementing the strategic plan was less effective due to a decrease in the percentage of -21.60%, this could be due to different economic problems every year, therefore it must be re-evaluated by updating existing programs.
SPECTROSCOPIC STUDIES OF Cu (II) AND Co (II) COMPLEXES WITH RUTIN IN SOLUTIONS
Authors: Trunova Elena , Artamonov Michailo , Makotryk Tamara
Published: December 2021

Complexation in M (II) – Rut systems (M(II) = Co, Cu) was studied by electron absorption spectroscopy and pH-metric titration in water-ethanol solutions depending on the metal: ligand ratio (1: 1; 2: 1) and the pH of the medium. It was shown that the structure and stoichiometric composition of the complexation reaction products are influenced by such basic parameters as L:M and the pH value of the medium. Depending on the pH value,  chelation involves certain binding sites, which primarily is associated with the redistribution of the electron density in the flavonoid molecule. In a weakly acidic or neutral medium, regardless of the M(II): Rut ratio, the formation of monoligand complexes of rutin with 3-d metals occurs with the participation of 5-OH and 4-C=O fragments of the A and C rings, and in an alkaline medium, chelation proceeds on the catecholic fragment of  ring B rutin. Biligand complexes are formed with the participation of the gydroxo groups of the catechol fragment of each rutin molecule, and the formation of compounds with a ratio of 2:1 occurs both due to 5-OH and 4C=O and due to 3 ', 4'-OH groups. The calculated values of the stability constants of the complexes showed that the stability of the Co (II) complexes is several orders of magnitude lower than the stability of the corresponding Cu (II) complexes.
ÍNDICE NDVI APLICADO AO SAMBAQUI DA FOZ DO RIO PORUQUARA, MUNICÍPIO DE GUARAQUEÇABA, PARANÁ, BRASIL
Authors: Villwock Fernando , Parolin Mauro , Parellada Claudia
Published: December 2021

No litoral norte do Paraná, município de Guaraqueçaba, um sambaqui situado na foz do rio Poruquara vem sofrendo diversos impactos de origem antrópica e natural, ocasionando a sucessiva destruição do sítio arqueológico e da vegetação. O trabalho teve como objetivo verificar os impactos ambientais que o sambaqui vem sofrendo nas últimas décadas, sendo que a verificação dos impactos foi realizada por meio do processamento de imagens de satélite (Landsat 5 – sensor TM), sendo aplicado o Índice de Vegetação por Diferença Normalizada (NDVI), possibilitando a identificação da densidade da vegetação. Os resultados apontam que a vegetação sofreu baixa variação na densidade no período estudado, enquanto os corpos hídricos sofreram maior variação, ficando evidente o aumento de sedimentos suspenso ou concentração de algas. A partir da pesquisa, se pode concluir a constância na presença de vegetação, além de detectar períodos com maior quantidade de material suspenso nos corpos hídricos.
Hsa_circ_0000652 Aggravates Inflammation by Activation of Macrophages and Enhancement of OX40/OX40L Interaction in Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Song Minkai , Gao Jiawen , Yan Tao , Bi Enguang , An Taixue , Wang Xiangyu , Jiang Weizhou , Wang Ting , Chen Zishuo , Shi Zhanjun , Zhang Chao , Xiao Jun
Published: December 2021

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as important roles in various inflammatory processes of rheumatic diseases. However, their expression profiles and influences in the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) remain unclear. In this study, we revealed the differential expression profiles of circRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in AS by circRNA sequencing. We screened the differentially expressed circRNAs in AS and verified that hsa_circ_0000652 was upregulated and had potential to be a biomarker of progression. Functionally, hsa_circ_0000652 promoted proliferation and cytokine production in macrophages and inhibited apoptosis. Through dual-luciferase assays and RNA pull-down assays, we demonstrated that hsa_circ_0000652 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by binding with hsa-miR-1179 and regulated OX40L, which is characterized as a co-stimulatory molecule and found to be upregulated in AS patients. As a result, hsa_circ_0000652 aggravated the inflammation in the coculture system containing CD4+ T cells and macrophages via OX40/OX40L interaction. Our findings suggest that hsa_circ_0000652 was upregulated in AS patients and may serve as a pro-inflammatory factor in macrophages and a positive regulator of OX40/OX40L by sponging hsa-miR-1179.
Fragile X–Related Protein 1 Regulates Nucleoporin Localization in a Cell Cycle–Dependent Manner
Authors: Agote-Arán Arantxa , Lin Junyan , Sumara Izabela
Published: December 2021

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are embedded in the nuclear envelope (NE) where they ensure the transport of macromolecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. NPCs are built from nucleoporins (Nups) through a sequential assembly order taking place at two different stages during the cell cycle of mammalian cells: at the end of mitosis and during interphase. In addition, fragile X–related proteins (FXRPs) can interact with several cytoplasmic Nups and facilitate their localization to the NE during interphase likely through a microtubule-dependent mechanism. In the absence of FXRPs or microtubule-based transport, Nups aberrantly localize to the cytoplasm forming the so-called cytoplasmic nucleoporin granules (CNGs), compromising NPCs’ function on protein export. However, it remains unknown if Nup synthesis or degradation mechanisms are linked to the FXRP–Nup pathway and if and how the action of FXRPs on Nups is coordinated with the cell cycle progression. Here, we show that Nup localization defects observed in the absence of FXR1 are independent of active protein translation. CNGs are cleared in an autophagy- and proteasome-independent manner, and their presence is restricted to the early G1 phase of the cell cycle. Our results thus suggest that a pool of cytoplasmic Nups exists that contributes to the NPC assembly specifically during early G1 to ensure NPC homeostasis at a short transition from mitosis to the onset of interphase.
Metabolites From the Mangrove-Derived Fungus Cladosporium sp. HNWSW-1
Authors: Cao Xi , Guo Lei , Cai Caihong , Kong Fandong , Yuan Jingzhe , Gai Cuijuan , Dai Haofu , Wang Pei , Mei Wenli
Published: December 2021

Two new benzoic acids, cladoslide A (1) and cladoslide B (2); one new β-carboline derivative, cladospomine (3); and one new pyridin-2(1H)-one, cladoslide C (4), were isolated from the fermentation cultures of the mangrove-derived fungus Cladosporium sp. HNWSW-1, along with the previously reported N-acetyl-β-oxotryptamine (5), (4S,5S,11R)-iso-cladospolide B (6), (4S,5S,11S)-iso-cladospolide B (7), and (4R,5S,11R)-iso-cladospolide B (8). Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis, Rh2(OCOCF3)4-induced ECD experiments, and Marfey’s method. Compound 1 showed cytotoxicity against the K562 cell line with IC50 values of 13.10 ± 0.08 μM. Moreover, compounds 1 and 5 exhibited inhibitory activity against α-glycosidase with IC50 values of 0.32 ± 0.01 mM and 0.17 ± 0.01 mM, respectively.
Ionic and Electronic Conductivities of Lithium Argyrodite Li6PS5Cl Electrolytes Prepared via Wet Milling and Post-Annealing
Authors: Lee Jae Min , Park Young Seon , Moon Ji-Woong , Hwang Haejin
Published: December 2021

Lithium argyrodite Li6PS5Cl powders are synthesized from Li2S, P2S5, and LiCl via wet milling and post-annealing at 500°C for 4 h. Organic solvents such as hexane, heptane, toluene, and xylene are used during the wet milling process. The phase evolution, powder morphology, and electrochemical properties of the wet-milled Li6PS5Cl powders and electrolytes are studied. Compared to dry milling, the processing time is significantly reduced via wet milling. The nature of the solvent does not affect the ionic conductivity significantly; however, the electronic conductivity changes noticeably. The study indicates that xylene and toluene can be used for the wet milling to synthesize Li6PS5Cl electrolyte powder with low electronic and comparable ionic conductivities. The all-solid-state cell with the xylene-processed Li6PS5Cl electrolyte exhibits the highest discharge capacity of 192.4 mAh·g−1 and a Coulombic efficiency of 81.3% for the first discharge cycle.
The Advance of CRISPR-Cas9-Based and NIR/CRISPR-Cas9-Based Imaging System
Authors: Qiao Huanhuan , Wu Jieting , Zhang Xiaodong , Luo Jian , Wang Hao , Ming Dong
Published: December 2021

The study of different genes, chromosomes and the spatiotemporal relationship between them is of great significance in the field of biomedicine. CRISPR-Cas9 has become the most widely used gene editing tool due to its excellent targeting ability. In recent years, a series of advanced imaging technologies based on Cas9 have been reported, providing fast and convenient tools for studying the sites location of genome, RNA, and chromatin. At the same time, a variety of CRISPR-Cas9-based imaging systems have been developed, which are widely used in real-time multi-site imaging in vivo. In this review, we summarized the component and mechanism of CRISPR-Cas9 system, overviewed the NIR imaging and the application of NIR fluorophores in the delivery of CRISPR-Cas9, and highlighted advances of the CRISPR-Cas9-based imaging system. In addition, we also discussed the challenges and potential solutions of CRISPR-Cas9-based imaging methods, and looked forward to the development trend of the field.
Enhancing Immune Responses to a DNA Vaccine Encoding Toxoplasma gondii GRA7 Using Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles as an Adjuvant
Authors: Sun Hong-Chao , Huang Jing , Fu Yuan , Hao Li-Li , Liu Xin , Shi Tuan-Yuan
Published: December 2021

Toxoplasma gondii infects almost all warm-blooded animals, including humans. DNA vaccines are an effective strategy against T. gondii infection, but these vaccines have often been poorly immunogenic due to the poor distribution of plasmids or degradation by lysosomes. It is necessary to evaluate the antigen delivery system for optimal vaccination strategy. Nanoparticles (NPs) have been shown to modulate and enhance the cellular humoral immune response. Here, we studied the immunological properties of calcium phosphate nanoparticles (CaPNs) as nanoadjuvants to enhance the protective effect of T. gondii dense granule protein (GRA7). BALB/c mice were injected three times and then challenged with T. gondii RH strain tachyzoites. Mice vaccinated with GRA7-pEGFP-C2+nano-adjuvant (CaPNs) showed a strong cellular immune response, as monitored by elevated levels of anti-T. gondii-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG), a higher IgG2a-to-IgG1 ratio, elevated interleukin (IL)-12 and interferon (IFN)-γ production, and low IL-4 levels. We found that a significantly higher level of splenocyte proliferation was induced by GRA7-pEGFP-C2+nano-adjuvant (CaPNs) immunization, and a significantly prolonged survival time and decreased parasite burden were observed in vaccine-immunized mice. These data indicated that CaPN-based immunization with T. gondii GRA7 is a promising approach to improve vaccination.
Earlier In Vitro Viral Production With SARS-CoV-2 Alpha Than With Beta, Gamma, B, or A.27 Variants
Authors: Lebourgeois Samuel , Chenane Houssem Redha , Houhou-Fidouh Nadhira , Menidjel Reyene , Ferré Valentine Marie , Collin Gilles , Benmalek Nabil , Coppée Romain , Larrouy Lucile , Yazdanpanah Yazdan , Timsit Jean-François , Charpentier Charlotte , Descamps Diane , Visseaux Benoit
Published: December 2021

Since its emergence in China at the end of 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has rapidly spread across the world to become a global public health emergency. Since then, the pandemic has evolved with the large worldwide emergence of new variants, such as the Alpha (B.1.1.7 variant), Beta (B.1.351 variant), and Gamma (P.1 variant), and some other under investigation such as the A.27 in France. Many studies are focusing on antibody neutralisation changes according to the spike mutations, but to date, little is known regarding their respective replication capacities. In this work, we demonstrate that the Alpha variant provides an earlier replication in vitro, on Vero E6 and A549 cells, than Beta, Gamma, A.27, and historical lineages. This earlier replication was associated with higher infectious titres in cell-culture supernatants, in line with the higher viral loads observed among Alpha-infected patients. Interestingly, Beta and Gamma variants presented similar kinetic and viral load than the other non-Alpha-tested variants.
Harnessing the Potential of miRNAs in Malaria Diagnostic and Prevention
Authors: Gupta Himanshu , Wassmer Samuel C.
Published: December 2021

Despite encouraging progress over the past decade, malaria remains a major global health challenge. Its severe form accounts for the majority of malaria-related deaths, and early diagnosis is key for a positive outcome. However, this is hindered by the non-specific symptoms caused by malaria, which often overlap with those of other viral, bacterial and parasitic infections. In addition, current tools are unable to detect the nature and degree of vital organ dysfunction associated with severe malaria, as complications develop silently until the effective treatment window is closed. It is therefore crucial to identify cheap and reliable early biomarkers of this wide-spectrum disease. microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs, are rapidly released into the blood circulation upon physiological changes, including infection and organ damage. The present review details our current knowledge of miRNAs as biomarkers of specific organ dysfunction in patients with malaria, and both promising candidates identified by pre-clinical models and important knowledge gaps are highlighted for future evaluation in humans. miRNAs associated with infected vectors are also described, with a view to expandind this rapidly growing field of research to malaria transmission and surveillance.
IoT as Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions for the Safety of Living Environments in COVID-19 Pandemic Age
Authors: Gamberini Luciano , Pluchino Patrik , Bacchin Davide , Zanella Andrea , Orso Valeria , Anna Spagnolli , Mapelli Daniela
Published: December 2021

The outbreak of the Sars-Cov-2 pandemic has changed our perception of safety in shared and public living environments including healthcare facilities, shops, schools, and enterprises. The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a suitable solution for managing anti-pandemic smart devices (e.g., UV lights, smart cameras, etc.) and increasing citizens’ safety in public health crises. In this paper, we highlighted how IoT technologies can be exploited as non-pharmaceutical interventions presenting the SAFE PLACE project as an implementation of this concept. The project meant to design and develop an IoT system to ensure the safety and salubrity of shared environments. Advanced algorithms will be exploited to detect and classify humans’ presence, gathering, usage of personal protective equipment, and considering carefully the privacy protection of individuals.
Direct Acting Oral Anticoagulant vs. Warfarin in the Prevention of Thromboembolism in Patients With Non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation With Valvular Heart Disease—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Martha Januar Wibawa , Pranata Raymond , Raffaelo Wilson Matthew , Wibowo Arief , Akbar Mohammad Rizki
Published: December 2021

Purpose: There is uncertainty as to which anticoagulant should be used in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) with valvular heart disease. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) compared with warfarin in patients with non-valvular AF with valvular heart disease.

Methods: We performed a comprehensive literature search using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Clinicaltrials.gov from the inception of databases up until August 2, 2021, and the search was updated and finalized on October 17, 2021. The intervention group was DOACs and the control group was warfarin. The primary outcome was systemic embolism and stroke (SSE), and the secondary outcome was major bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage. The pooled effect estimate was reported as the hazard ratio (HR) and odds ratio (OR).

Results: There were 21,185 patients from seven studies included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Stroke and systemic embolism were lower in patients receiving DOACs [HR 0.76 (95% CI 0.67, 0.87), p < 0.001; I2: 5%] compared with warfarin. The subgroup analysis on RCTs showed the significant reduction of SSE in the DOACs group [HR 0.73 (95% CI 0.60, 0.89), p = 0.002; I2: 16%]. There was no significant difference in terms of major bleeding [HR 0.89 (95% CI 0.75, 1.05), p = 0.18; I2: 69%]. Intracranial hemorrhage [HR 0.42 (95% CI 0.22, 0.80), p = 0.008; I2: 73%] were lower in the DOAC group.

Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicates that DOACs were associated with a lower risk of SSE and intracranial hemorrhage compared with patients receiving warfarin. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of major bleeding.
Privacy Personas for IoT-Based Health Research: A Privacy Calculus Approach
Authors: Maus Benjamin , Olsson Carl Magnus , Salvi Dario
Published: December 2021

The reliance on data donation from citizens as a driver for research, known as citizen science, has accelerated during the Sars-Cov-2 pandemic. An important enabler of this is Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as mobile phones and wearable devices, that allow continuous data collection and convenient sharing. However, potentially sensitive health data raises privacy and security concerns for citizens, which research institutions and industries must consider. In e-commerce or social network studies of citizen science, a privacy calculus related to user perceptions is commonly developed, capturing the information disclosure intent of the participants. In this study, we develop a privacy calculus model adapted for IoT-based health research using citizen science for user engagement and data collection. Based on an online survey with 85 participants, we make use of the privacy calculus to analyse the respondents' perceptions. The emerging privacy personas are clustered and compared with previous research, resulting in three distinct personas which can be used by designers and technologists who are responsible for developing suitable forms of data collection. These are the 1) Citizen Science Optimist, the 2) Selective Data Donor, and the 3) Health Data Controller. Together with our privacy calculus for citizen science based digital health research, the three privacy personas are the main contributions of this study.
Hypoxia-Inducible Non-coding RNAs in Mesenchymal Stem Cell Fate and Regeneration
Authors: Ye Yu , Zhao Xinyuan , Xu Yan , Yu Jinhua
Published: December 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into multiple cell lines, which makes them an important source of cells for tissue engineering applications. They are defined by the capability to renew themselves and maintain pluripotency. This ability is modulated by the balance between complex cues from cellular microenvironment. Self-renewal and differentiation abilities are regulated by particular microenvironmental signals. Oxygen is considered to be an important part of cell microenvironment, which not only acts as a metabolic substrate but also a signal molecule. It has been proved that MSCs are hypoxic in the physiological environment. Signals from MSCs' microenvironment or niche which means the anatomical location of the MSCs, maintain the final properties of MSCs. Physiological conditions like oxygen tension are deemed to be a significant part of the mesenchymal stem cell niche, and have been proved to be involved in modulating embryonic and adult MSCs. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), which play a key role in cell signal transduction, transcription and translation of genes, have been widely concerned as epigenetic regulators in a great deal of tissues. With the rapid development of bioinformatics analysis tools and high-throughput RNA sequencing technology, more and more evidences show that ncRNAs play a key role in tissue regeneration. It shows potential as a biomarker of MSC differentiation. In this paper, we reviewed the physiological correlation of hypoxia as a unique environmental parameter which is conducive to MSC expansion and maintenance, discussed the correlation of tissue engineering, and summarized the influence of hypoxia related ncRNAs on MSCs' fate and regeneration. This review will provide reference for future research of MSCs' regeneration.
Inflating Shallow Plumbing System of Bezymianny Volcano, Kamchatka, Studied by InSAR and Seismicity Data Prior to the 20 December 2017 Eruption
Authors: Mania René , Cesca Simone , Walter Thomas R. , Koulakov Ivan , Senyukov Sergey L.
Published: December 2021

Explosive eruptions at steep-sided volcanoes may develop with complex precursor activity occurring in a poorly-understood magma plumbing system so that timelines and possible interactions with the geologic surrounding are often unresolved. Here we investigate the episode prior to the energetic December 20, 2017 eruption at Bezymianny volcano, Kamchatka. We compare degassing activity inferred from time-lapse camera images, seismicity and real-time seismic amplitude (RSAM) data derived from a temporary station network, as well as high-resolution InSAR displacement maps. Results show that the first changes can be identified in low-frequency seismicity and degassing at least 90 days before the eruption, while the first volcano-tectonic (VT) seismicity occurred 50 days before the eruption. Coinciding with significant changes of the RSAM, surface displacements affect the volcanic flanks at least 9 days prior to the eruption. Inversion modeling of the pre-eruptive surface deformation as well as deflation-type, co-eruptive surface changes indicate the presence of a shallow and transient reservoir. We develop a conceptual model for Bezymianny volcano initiating with deep seismicity, followed by shallow events, rockfalls, steaming and an inflating reservoir. The eruption is then associated with subsidence, caused by deflation of the same reservoir. This sequence and conceivable causality of these observations are providing a valuable contribution to our understanding of the shallow magma plumbing system beneath Bezymianny and may have relevance for volcano monitoring and early warning strategies at similar volcanoes elsewhere.
Epigenetic Transgenerational Inheritance of the Effects of Obesogen Exposure
Authors: Mohajer Nicole , Joloya Erika M. , Seo Jeongbin , Shioda Toshi , Blumberg Bruce
Published: December 2021

Obesity and metabolic disorders have become a worldwide pandemic affecting millions of people. Although obesity is a multifaceted disease, there is growing evidence supporting the obesogen hypothesis, which proposes that exposure to a subset of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), known as obesogens, promotes obesity. While these effects can be observed in vitro using cell models, in vivo and human epidemiological studies have strengthened this hypothesis. Evidence from animal models showed that the effects of obesogen exposure can be inherited transgenerationally through at least the F4 generation. Transgenerational effects of EDC exposure predispose future generations to undesirable phenotypic traits and diseases, including obesity and related metabolic disorders. The exact mechanisms through which phenotypic traits are passed from an exposed organism to their offspring, without altering the primary DNA sequence, remain largely unknown. Recent research has provided strong evidence suggesting that a variety of epigenetic mechanisms may underlie transgenerational inheritance. These include differential DNA methylation, histone methylation, histone retention, the expression and/or deposition of non-coding RNAs and large-scale alterations in chromatin structure and organization. This review highlights the most recent advances in the field of epigenetics with respect to the transgenerational effects of environmental obesogens. We highlight throughout the paper the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence for proposed mechanisms underlying transgenerational inheritance and why none of these is sufficient to fully explain the phenomenon. We propose that changes in higher order chromatin organization and structure may be a plausible explanation for how some disease predispositions are heritable through multiple generations, including those that were not exposed. A solid understanding of these possible mechanisms is essential to fully understanding how environmental exposures can lead to inherited susceptibility to diseases such as obesity.
Winners and Losers: How Woody Encroachment Is Changing the Small Mammal Community Structure in a Neotropical Savanna
Authors: Furtado Luciana O. , Felicio Giovana Ribeiro , Lemos Paula Rocha , Christianini Alexander V. , Martins Marcio , Carmignotto Ana Paula
Published: December 2021

Years of fire suppression, decreases in herbivores, and global climate change have led to shifts in savannas worldwide. Natural open vegetation such as grasslands and shrublands is increasing in wood density, but the effects for small mammals are not well understood. While most of the mammal studies from the Brazilian Cerrado are concentrated in the core area of this large Neotropical savanna, its southern portions are suffering from biome shifting through woody encroachment. Herein, we surveyed a small mammal community from the southeastern boundary of Cerrado (Santa Bárbara Ecological Station) and evaluated the micro and macro environmental variables shaping community structure in order to investigate how the woody encroachment in the last 15 years may have influenced this assemblage. We recorded 17 species of marsupials and rodents along five distinct habitats in a gradient from grasslands to woodlands. Although richness was not affected by microhabitat variables, total and relative abundance varied according to habitat type and in relation to herbaceous, shrub, and tree density. Rodents such as Calomys tener and Clyomys laticeps were positively affected by increasing herb cover, Cerradomys scotti and Oligoryzomys nigripes by shrub cover, while the marsupial Didelphis albiventris had higher association with increasing tree cover. We detected an increase of 27.4% in vegetation density (EVI) between 2003 and 2018 in our study site, and this woody encroachment negatively affected the abundance of some small mammals. The open-area specialists Cryptonanus chacoensis and C. scotti had a decrease in abundance, while D. albiventris and O. nigripes were favored by woody encroachment. Our data suggest that woody encroachment is shifting community composition: small mammals often associated with grasslands and open savannas are likely to be negatively affected by woody encroachment; while species that rely on tree-covered habitats are likely to benefit from an increasing woody landscape. Therefore, forest-dwellers are gradually replacing open-vegetation inhabitants. Active management of open formations (e.g., with prescribed burning) may be needed to maintain Cerrado biodiversity, especially considering the open-area endemics.
Fine-Mapping of the Major Histocompatibility Complex Region Linked to Leprosy in Northern China
Authors: Zhang Ruixue , Cao Lu , Chen Weiwei , Ge Huiyao , Hu Xia , Li Zhuo , Wang Yirui , Fan Wencheng , Yong Liang , Yu Yafen , Mao Yiwen , Zhen Qi , Liu Hong , Zhang Furen , Sun Liangdan
Published: December 2021

Background: Leprosy is a chronic infectious skin and neurological disease, and genetic background is considered to be one of the major factors of risk. The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region not only affects susceptibility to leprosy but also its development and outcome. Given the complex traits of the MHC region, variants and the potential mechanism by which HLA influences leprosy development need to be further explored.

Methods: We extracted previous genome-wide association study data from the Northern Han Chinese population to perform HLA fine-mapping. Using the 1,000 Genome Project Phase 3 dataset as the reference panel, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), insertion and deletion (INDEL) and copy number variant (CNV) imputation were carried out. HLA classical alleles and amino acids in the MHC region were imputed using the HAN-MHC database. Further stepwise regression analysis was conducted to analyze independent signals of variants related to leprosy.

Results: We identified four independent variants: esv3608598, rs7754498, rs3130781 and rs144388449. Among them, esv3608598 is a CNV and the first HLA CNV associated with leprosy risk. SNP annotation using RegulomeDB, HaploReg, and rVarBase showed that three SNPs are likely to affect the pathogenesis of leprosy.

Conclusion: In summary, this is the first study to assess the association between HLA CNV and leprosy susceptibility in a Northern Han Chinese population. By fine mapping of the MHC region in this population, our findings provide evidence for the contribution of HLA to leprosy susceptibility.
Factors Associated With the Utilisation and Unmet Need for Modern Contraceptives Among Urban Women in Kenya: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Akoth Catherine , Oguta James Odhiambo , Kyololo O'Brien M. , Nyamu Martin , Ndirangu Michael Ndung'u , Gatimu Samwel Maina
Published: December 2021

Background: Family planning (FP) is a key intervention in improving maternal and child health. Hence, we assessed the factors associated with utilisation and unmet need for modern contraceptives among urban women in Kenya.

Methods: The study used pooled data on 10,474 women 15–49 years from the seven rounds of the performance monitoring for accountability surveys collected between 2014 and 2018. The surveys were conducted in 11 of the 47 counties of Kenya using a multistage cluster design. Sample characteristics were described using frequencies and percentages while factors associated with utilisation and unmet need for modern contraceptives were assessed using multivariable logistic regressions.

Results: The prevalence of modern contraceptives use and unmet need for FP among urban women in Kenya was 53.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) 52.1–55.3%] and 16.9% (15.8–18.1%), respectively. The use of modern contraceptive was associated with the county of residence, age, marital status, parity, education, household wealth quintile, exposure to media, and survey year. Teenagers, poorest urban women, women with no formal or primary level of education and those who seek services at a dispensary or health centres had higher odds of unmet need for FP while women who resided in Kitui and Nyamira counties had reduced odds of unmet need for FP. The odds of unmet need decreased with the survey year while that of modern contraceptive use had an inverse trend.

Conclusion: Overall modern contraceptive use in urban areas is lower than the national average while the unmet need for FP is higher than national average, highlighting a potential urban-rural disparity in FP indicators in Kenya. Individual sociodemographic and socioeconomic and contextual factors are associated with the use of modern contraceptive and unmet need for FP among urban women in Kenya. Urban family planning policies and programmes in Kenya need to focus on strengthening urban healthcare systems to provide equal and accessible FP services, especially targeted towards teenagers and young women and those of low socioeconomic status.
Retinal Microvasculature Changes in Patients With Coronary Total Occlusion on Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Zhong Pingting , Hu Yijun , Jiang Lei , Peng Qingsheng , Huang Manqing , Li Cong , Kuang Yu , Tan Ning , Yu Honghua , Yang Xiaohong
Published: December 2021

Background: Retinal microvasculature has been associated with coronary artery disease (CAD), but the exact contributory role in coronary total occlusion (CTO) is unclear. We aimed to investigate whether retinal vasculature is associated with CTO and could provide incremental value in the assessment of CTO.

Methods: A total of 218 CAD patients including 102 CTO and 116 non-CTO were enrolled. Retinal vasculature was measured by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) for all patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the performance of retinal vasculature in differentiating CTO from non-CTO patients.

Results: In non-CTO CAD patients, vessel density (VD) of mean superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and parafovea SCP were 49.85 and 52.56%, respectively; in CTO patients, VD of mean SCP and parafovea SCP were 47.77, and 49.58%, respectively. After multiple adjustment, VD in the SCP was significantly lower in CTO patients compared to non-CTO patients. VD of superior hemi in the parafovea SCP combined with the clinical variates showed the best ability to predict CTO from CAD with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.812 (specificity of 89.0% and sensitivity of 65.9%).

Conclusions: In CTO patients, retinal VD was significantly decreased, and microvascular damage might specifically target to arterioles than capillaries. Retinal vasculature could thus be a surrogate for detecting the microvascular damage and assist in the assessment of CTO patients. OCTA examination could be suggested to monitor the process of coronary arteries lesions.
The Application of the Philosophical Thinking of “Three” From I Ching to Medical Education
Authors: Du Yingjie , Zhang Xinqing , Zhang Jinjing , Wang Guyan
Published: December 2021

Since ancient times, the Chinese have had a special understanding of the “Three”. Chinese philosophy originates from the I Ching, and the philosophical concept of “Three” is the core of the I Ching. The philosophical thinking about “Three” entails a complete dialectical thinking method that is consistent with the Western philosophical concept of “One Dividing into Three”. In this paper, we explain the philosophical concept of “Three” and suggest its application to medical education, including the learning and application of new technology, shared decision making between doctors and patients, and integration of medical humanities and medical science.
Intrahepatic Biliary Cystadenoma With Colonic Adenomatous Polyps in a Patient With Chronic Hepatitis B: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tang Yan , Wang Chenyu , Fu Shunjun , Li Ting , He Guolin
Published: December 2021

Background: Biliary cystadenomas are rare cystic tumors of the bile duct system that are mostly benign but also have the possibility of malignant transformation. Biliary cystadenomas mostly occur in the intrahepatic bile ducts and are more common in middle-aged women. Due to non-specific radiology, preoperative diagnosis is difficult and is usually performed by postoperative pathology. Complete resection is the best treatment option, and the postoperative prognosis is good.

Case Description: This study reports a case of a patient with biliary cystadenoma who was diagnosed with simultaneous chronic hepatitis B and colon (hepatic flexure) adenomatous polyps. The patient presented to the doctor because of abdominal pain, and a blood test showed hepatitis B. Computed tomography revealed both right liver and colonic lesions. Colonoscopy revealed polyps, and the postoperative pathological diagnosis was adenomatous polyps. Laparoscopic resection of the right liver tumor was performed, and it was diagnosed as hepatobiliary cystadenoma by postoperative pathological analysis combined with immunohistochemistry.

Conclusion: In patients with chronic hepatitis, the shape of biliary cystadenoma may not be very typical, and it is necessary to combine this with immunohistochemistry for diagnosis. When multiple lesions are detected in the painful area, the diagnosis of each lesion and its treatment sequence are worthy of consideration. Under normal circumstances, the prognosis of biliary cystadenoma is good; however, in patients with chronic hepatitis B, more cases need to be observed for verification.
Multiple Myeloma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Impair Normal Hematopoiesis by Acting on Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells
Authors: Laurenzana Ilaria , Trino Stefania , Lamorte Daniela , De Stradis Angelo , Santodirocco Michele , Sgambato Alessandro , De Luca Luciana , Caivano Antonella
Published: December 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by the abnormal proliferation of clonal plasma cells (PCs) in bone marrow (BM). MM-PCs progressively occupy and likely alter BM niches where reside hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) whose viability, self-renewal, proliferation, commitment, and differentiation are essential for normal hematopoiesis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are particles released by normal and neoplastic cells, such as MM cells. They are important cell-to-cell communicators able to modify the phenotype, genotype, and the fate of the recipient cells. Investigation of mechanisms and mediators underlying HSPC-MM-PC crosstalk is warranted to better understand the MM hematopoietic impairment and for the identification of novel therapeutic strategies against this incurable malignancy. This study is aimed to evaluate whether EVs released by MM-PCs interact with HSPCs, what effects they exert, and the underlying mechanisms involved. Therefore, we investigated the viability, cell cycle, phenotype, clonogenicity, and microRNA profile of HSPCs exposed to MM cell line-released EVs (MM-EVs). Our data showed that: (i) MM cells released a heterogeneous population of EVs; (ii) MM-EVs caused a dose-dependent reduction of HSPCs viability; (iii) MM-EVs caused a redistribution of the HSPC pool characterized by a significant increase in the frequency of stem and early precursors accompanied by a reduction of late precursor cells, such as common myeloid progenitors (CMPs), megakaryocyte erythroid progenitors (MEPs), B and NK progenitors, and a slight increase of granulocyte macrophage progenitors (GMPs); (iv) MM-EVs caused an increase of stem and early precursors in S phase with a decreased number of cells in G0/G1 phase in a dose-dependent manner; (v) MM-EVs reduced the HSPC colony formation; and (vi) MM-EVs caused an increased expression level of C-X-C motif chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) and activation of miRNAs. In conclusion, MM cells through the release of EVs, by acting directly on normal HSPCs, negatively dysregulate normal hematopoiesis, and this could have important therapeutic implications.