bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triptolide regulates the balance of Tfr/Tfh in lupus mice
Authors: Zhao Xia , Ji Wei , Lu Yan , Liu Weiwei , Guo Feng
Published: July 2023

Introduction/objectives

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a classic prototype of the multisystem autoimmune disease and follows a relapsing and remitting course. Triptolide is a diterpene triepoxide extracted from Chinese medicine Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, with potent immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. Our previous work observed that triptolide alleviated lupus in MRL/lpr lupus mice with the upregulation of regulatory T cells (Treg) proportion in previous study. In this study, we explored the proportion of follicular T regulatory (Tfr), follicular T helper (Tfh) and germinal center (GC) B cells in lupus mice and evaluated the efficacy of triptolide for lupus treatment in vivo.

Methods

20 female MRL/lpr mice were randomly divided into 2 treatment groups and treated orally with vehicle or triptolide. C3H mice were all housed as controlled group and treated orally with vehicle. The percentage of Tfr cells, Tfh cells and GC B cells in spleen of mice were detected by Flow cytometric analysis and immunohistochemistry after 13 weeks of treatment.

Results

We found that the percentage of Tfr cells decreased in MRL/lpr mice compared with controlled mice. The percentage of Tfh cells in MRL/lpr mice was significantly higher compared with that in controlled mice. The ratio of Tfr/Tfh is also decreased in lupus mice. After treated with triptolide in MRL/Lpr mice in vivo, the percentage of Tfr cells and ratio of Tfr/Tfh increased. The proportion of GC B cells also decreased in mice treated with triptolide by FACS and immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that the effect of triptolide in alleviating lupus is partly by reversing immune imbalance with increased percentage of Tfr cells and ratio of Tfr/Tfh. Triptolide might also has effect on immune response through inhibiting proliferating GC B cells.
Effectiveness of muscle energy technique on pain intensity and disability in chronic low back patients: a systematic review
Authors: Al Matif Saeid , Alfageer Galeb , ALNasser Nasser , Alabbas Ghanem , Al Sawidan Hamad , ALhareth Hadi
Published: July 2023

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a highly prevalent musculoskeletal condition and causes activity limitations resulting in reduced productivity and high medical expenditure. Muscle energy technique (MET) is a therapeutic technique that has the potential to be successful in LBP, although the evidence for this notion is still inconclusive. The effectiveness of the muscular energy technique on pain intensity and disability for individuals with chronic low back pain was evaluated in published studies through this systematic review of the literature.

Methods

Studying the English language and humans, as well as scanning article reference lists from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, the Cochrane Library, Ovid, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Embase, was searched until October 30, 2022. Randomised controlled studies reporting on the effectiveness of muscle energy technique on pain intensity and disability for chronic low back patients were included. Information related to demographics, number and duration of treatment, MET protocol, assessment tools used for pain and disability, and key findings was extracted. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) classification scale was used to assess the methodological quality of studies, and two authors assessed the risk of bias and extracted the data independently.

Results

Seventeen research studies (including 817 participants) were retrieved and included for qualitative analysis. The studies published between 2011 and 2022 were retrieved, and the sample size ranged from 10 to one hundred twenty-five participants. The age of the subjects ranged between 18 and 60 years, and interventions were done between 2 days and 12 weeks. Of the included 17 studies, five were from Egypt, four were from India, two each from Iran and Nigeria, and one each from Brazil, Poland, Thailand, and Pakistan. Compared to other interventions or the control groups, MET was found to significantly, although modestly, decrease the severity of pain and reduce functional disability in patients with chronic LBP. Most of the included studies had moderate to high study quality.

Conclusion

In patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP), it was observed that MET alone as well as in conjunction with other interventions was found to be beneficial in reducing pain intensity, improving lumbar spine range of motion, and decreasing the degree of functional disability.
Air quality and mental health: evidence, challenges and future directions
Authors: Bhui Kamaldeep , Newbury Joanne B. , Latham Rachel M. , Ucci Marcella , Nasir Zaheer A. , Turner Briony , O'Leary Catherine , Fisher Helen L. , Marczylo Emma , Douglas Philippa , Stansfeld Stephen , Jackson Simon K. , Tyrrel Sean , Rzhetsky Andrey , Kinnersley Rob , Kumar Prashant , Duchaine Caroline , Coulon Frederic
Published: July 2023

Background

Poor air quality is associated with poor health. Little attention is given to the complex array of environmental exposures and air pollutants that affect mental health during the life course.

Aims

We gather interdisciplinary expertise and knowledge across the air pollution and mental health fields. We seek to propose future research priorities and how to address them.

Method

Through a rapid narrative review, we summarise the key scientific findings, knowledge gaps and methodological challenges.

Results

There is emerging evidence of associations between poor air quality, both indoors and outdoors, and poor mental health more generally, as well as specific mental disorders. Furthermore, pre-existing long-term conditions appear to deteriorate, requiring more healthcare. Evidence of critical periods for exposure among children and adolescents highlights the need for more longitudinal data as the basis of early preventive actions and policies. Particulate matter, including bioaerosols, are implicated, but form part of a complex exposome influenced by geography, deprivation, socioeconomic conditions and biological and individual vulnerabilities. Critical knowledge gaps need to be addressed to design interventions for mitigation and prevention, reflecting ever-changing sources of air pollution. The evidence base can inform and motivate multi-sector and interdisciplinary efforts of researchers, practitioners, policy makers, industry, community groups and campaigners to take informed action.

Conclusions

There are knowledge gaps and a need for more research, for example, around bioaerosols exposure, indoor and outdoor pollution, urban design and impact on mental health over the life course.
Gene Expression and Benefit of Chemotherapy in Women With Node-Negative, Estrogen Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Paik Soonmyung , Tang Gong , Shak Steven , Kim Chungyeul , Baker Joffre , Kim Wanseop , Cronin Maureen , Baehner Frederick L. , Watson Drew , Bryant John , Costantino Joseph P. , Geyer Charles E. , Wickerham D. Lawrence , Wolmark Norman
Published: July 2023

PURPOSE

The 21-gene recurrence score (RS) assay quantifies the likelihood of distant recurrence in women with estrogen receptor–positive, lymph node–negative breast cancer treated with adjuvant tamoxifen. The relationship between the RS and chemotherapy benefit is not known.

METHODS

The RS was measured in tumors from the tamoxifen-treated and tamoxifen plus chemotherapy–treated patients in the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) B20 trial. Cox proportional hazards models were utilized to test for interaction between chemotherapy treatment and the RS.

RESULTS

A total of 651 patients were assessable (227 randomly assigned to tamoxifen and 424 randomly assigned to tamoxifen plus chemotherapy). The test for interaction between chemotherapy treatment and RS was statistically significant ( P = .038). Patients with high-RS (≥ 31) tumors (ie, high risk of recurrence) had a large benefit from chemotherapy (relative risk, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.53; absolute decrease in 10-year distant recurrence rate: mean, 27.6%; SE, 8.0%). Patients with low-RS (< 18) tumors derived minimal, if any, benefit from chemotherapy treatment (relative risk, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.46 to 3.78; absolute decrease in distant recurrence rate at 10 years: mean, −1.1%; SE, 2.2%). Patients with intermediate-RS tumors did not appear to have a large benefit, but the uncertainty in the estimate can not exclude a clinically important benefit.

CONCLUSION

The RS assay not only quantifies the likelihood of breast cancer recurrence in women with node-negative, estrogen receptor–positive breast cancer, but also predicts the magnitude of chemotherapy benefit.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy for Hematologic Malignancies: A Practical Review
Authors: Strati Paolo , Gregory Tara , Majhail Navneet S. , Jain Nitin
Published: July 2023

Practical review of clinical application of #CARTcell for adult patients with heme malignancy
RBP4-based Multimarker Score: A Prognostic Tool for Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients
Authors: Ye Bingqi , Zhao Qian , Fan Jiahua , Li Xiaomei , Shan Chunfang , Liu Fen , Song Ning , Zhu Jiajun , Xia Min , Liu Yan , Yang Yining
Published: July 2023

Context

Retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) has been implicated in the progression of cardiovascular diseases. However, its association with major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains obscure.

Objective

Here, we examined the prognostic value of baseline RBP4 and its derived multimarker score for MACEs in ACS patients.

Methods

A total of 826 patients with ACS were consecutively recruited from the department of cardiology and prospectively followed up for a median of 1.95 years (interquartile range, 1.02-3.25 years). Plasma RBP4 was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Adjusted associations between RBP4 and its derived multimarker score (1 point was assigned when RBP4 ≥ 38.18μg/mL, left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] ≤ 55%, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide [NT-proBNP] ≥ 450 ng/L, estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≤ 90 mL/min/1.73 m2, and age ≥60) with MACEs were analyzed.

Results

In total, 269 ACS patients (32.57%) experienced MACEs. When patients were grouped by multimarker score (0-1, n = 315; 2-3, n = 406; 4-5, n = 105), there was a significant graded association between RBP4-based multimarker score and risk of MACEs (intermediate score (2-3): HRadj: 1.80; 95% CI, 1.34-2.41; high score (4-5): HRadj: 3.26; 95% CI, 2.21-4.81) and its components (P < .05 for each). Moreover, the prognostic and discriminative value of the RBP4-derived multimarker score remained robust in ACS patients with various high-risk anatomical or clinical characteristics.

Conclusion

The RBP4-derived 5-item score serves as a useful risk stratification and decision support for secondary prevention in patients with ACS.
Cerebral Cortical Thickness Morphometry and Neurocognitive Correlations in Adolescents With Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Rojas-Ramos Juliana Cristina Romero , Pelaez Julita Maria , Ono Sergio Eiji , Ramos Cássio Slompo , de Carvalho Neto Arnolfo , de Lacerda Luiz , Nesi-França Suzana
Published: July 2023

Context

Subtle cognitive impairments have been described in children with congenital hypothyroidism (CH) detected by neonatal screening (NS), even with early and adequate treatment. Patients with CH may present with brain cortical thickness (CT) abnormalities, which may be associated with neurocognitive impairments.

Objective

This work aimed to evaluate the CT in adolescents with CH detected by the NS Program (Paraná, Brazil), and to correlate possible abnormalities with cognitive level and variables of neurocognitive prognosis.

Methods

A review was conducted of medical records followed by psychometric evaluation of adolescents with CH. Brain magnetic resonance imaging with analysis of 33 brain areas of each hemisphere was performed in 41 patients (29 girls) and in a control group of 20 healthy adolescents. CT values were correlated with Full-scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) scores, age at start of treatment, pretreatment thyroxine levels, and maternal schooling.

Results

No significant difference in CT between patients and controls were found. However, there was a trend toward thinning in the right lateral orbitofrontal cortex among patients and in the right postcentral gyrus cortex among controls. CT correlated significantly with FSIQ scores and with age at start of treatment in 1 area, and with hypothyroidism severity in 5 brain areas. Maternal schooling level did not correlate with CT but was significantly correlated with FSIQ. Cognitive level was within average in 44.7% of patients (13.2% had intellectual deficiency).

Conclusion

There was a trend toward morphometric alterations in the cerebral cortex of adolescents with CH compared with healthy controls. The correlations between CT and variables of neurocognitive prognosis emphasize the influence of hypothyroidism on cortical development. Socioeconomic status exerts a limiting factor on cognitive outcome.
Posttransplant Diabetes Mellitus: Recent Developments in Pharmacological Management of Hyperglycemia
Authors: Munoz Pena Juan M , Cusi Kenneth
Published: July 2023

Context

The management of solid-organ transplantation is rapidly evolving, and posttransplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM), which is increasingly common, is a barrier to transplant success, adversely impacting infection rates, allograft survival, cardiovascular disease, quality of life, and overall mortality. Currently, the management of PTDM relies primarily on intensified insulin therapy. However, emerging studies report that several noninsulin glucose-lowering agents are safe and effective in improving metabolic control and enhancing treatment adherence. More importantly, their use in PTDM can potentially transform the long-term management of these complex patients, as some glucose-lowering agents may provide benefits beyond glycemic control. For instance, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors may offer cardiorenal protection, and pioglitazone may treat nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This review will focus on the pharmacological management of PTDM and the emerging evidence for noninsulin glucose-lowering agents in this population.

Evidence acquisition

Evidence from observational studies, randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses.

Evidence synthesis

PTDM adversely affects the outcomes of infection, organ survival, cardiovascular events, and mortality. Insulin therapy has been the drug of choice but is associated with weight gain and hypoglycemia. In contrast, noninsulin agents appear safe and may provide additional benefits, such as cardiorenal protection with SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 RA, and cardiometabolic benefits with pioglitazone, in patients undergoing solid-organ transplantation.

Conclusions

Optimal care of patients with PTDM requires close monitoring and the early involvement of the endocrinologist as part of a multidisciplinary team. Noninsulin glucose-lowering agents will likely play an increasing role as more long-term, controlled studies become available in this setting.
RFamide-related Peptide 3 Signaling via Neuropeptide FF Receptor Stimulates Prolactin Secretion in Female Rats
Authors: Aquino Nayara S S , Mansano Naira S , Vieira Fernanda A S , Silva Kaoma S C , Gusmao Daniela O , Anderson Greg M , Frazao Renata , Reis Adelina M , Szawka Raphael E
Published: July 2023

The RF-amide peptides comprise a family of neuropeptides that includes the kisspeptin (Kp), the natural ligand of kisspeptin receptor (Kiss1r), and the RFamide-related peptide 3 (RFRP-3) that binds preferentially to the neuropeptide FF receptor 1 (Npffr1). Kp stimulates prolactin (PRL) secretion through the inhibition of tuberoinfundibular dopaminergic (TIDA) neurons. Because Kp also has affinity to Npffr1, we investigated the role of Npffr1 in the control of PRL secretion by Kp and RFRP-3. Intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of Kp increased PRL and LH secretion in ovariectomized, estradiol-treated rats. The unselective Npffr1 antagonist RF9 prevented these responses, whereas the selective antagonist GJ14 altered PRL but not LH levels. The ICV injection of RFRP-3 in ovariectomized, estradiol-treated rats increased PRL secretion, which was associated with a rise in the dopaminergic activity in the median eminence, but had no effect on LH levels. The RFRP-3-induced increase in PRL secretion was prevented by GJ14. Moreover, the estradiol-induced PRL surge in female rats was blunted by GJ14, along with an amplification of the LH surge. Nevertheless, whole-cell patch clamp recordings showed no effect of RFRP-3 on the electrical activity of TIDA neurons in dopamine transporter-Cre recombinase transgenic female mice. We provide evidence that RFRP-3 binds to Npffr1 to stimulate PRL release, which plays a role in the estradiol-induced PRL surge. This effect of RFRP-3 is apparently not mediated by a reduction in the inhibitory tone of TIDA neurons but possibly involves the activation of a hypothalamic PRL-releasing factor.
Clinical and Biochemical Characteristics of Untreated Adult Patients With Resistance to Thyroid Hormone Alpha
Authors: Dahll Louise Koren , Westbye Alexander Bauer , Vinorum Kristin , Sejersted Yngve , Barøy Tuva , Thorsby Per Medbøe , Hammerstad Sara Salehi
Published: July 2023

Background

Thyroid hormone resistance due to pathogenic variants in thyroid hormone receptor alpha (THRA) is rare and descriptions of patients are sparse. The disorder is probably underdiagnosed as patients may have normal thyroid function tests. Treatment with thyroxine in childhood improves clinical symptoms. However, it is not clear if treatment has beneficial effects if started in adulthood.

Cases

We investigated 4 previously untreated Caucasian adult first-degree-related patients with the THRA c.788C > T, p.(Ala263Val) variant identified by a gene panel for intellectual disability in the index patient. Clinical data and previous investigations were obtained from medical reports.

Results

During childhood and adolescence, short stature, short limbs, metacarpals, and phalanges, and delayed bone age maturation were observed. Delayed motor and language development and decreased intellectual and learning abilities were described. Abdominal adiposity, round face, and increased head circumference were common features. All individuals complained of tiredness, constipation, and low mood. While thyrotropin (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) were within the reference range, free triiodothyronine (FT3) was high. FT4/FT3 ratio and reverse T3 were low. Other main features were low hemoglobin and high LDL/HDL ratio.

Conclusion

Investigation of 4 first-degree-related adult patients with untreated resistance to thyroid hormone alpha (RTHα) revealed more pronounced phenotype features and hypothyroid symptoms than previously described in patients treated with levothyroxine from childhood or adolescence. The delay in diagnosis is probably due to normal thyroid function tests. We suggest that THRA analysis should be performed in patients with specific clinical features, as treatment in early childhood may improve outcomes.
Medicinal effects of microbubble bath on atopic eczema and psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Och Frantisek , Mankovecky Lubomir , Saskova Dana , Kulaviak Lukas
Published: July 2023

The incidence of atopic eczema in the population reaches generally up to 25%. Skin dis-eases such as Atopic eczema and Psoriasis vulgaris are a worldwide problem. Use of topi-cal corticosteroids is the first-line treatment for atopic dermatitis flare-ups. Last individual case studies led to the hypothesis: Baths with microbubbles in tap water can significantly support the treatment of skin diseases. Microbubbles penetrate deep into the skin pores. Micro implosions occur on the pore walls, which mechanically affect nerve endings and vascular microcapillaries. In addition, due to the implosion of microbubbles, the mechan-ical effect leads to an increased release and flushing of substances contained in the skin pores. A total of 30 patients were selected for the study, of which 15 were included in the Study Group and 15 in the Control Group. The effects were monitored on the objectively evaluable dermatological calculators PASI, EASI, SCORAD, and DLQI Score, Quality of life, and Number and condition of foci. The project responded to the hypothesis that mi-crobubbles in the water phase, produced by special generators, in the size range of 1-100 µm, may in the future become a fundamental innovation in balneological treatment in the form of new treatment procedures.
New methodological aspects in rehabilitation after proximal humerus fracture
Authors: Burcea Claudia-Camelia , Bobu Vasile , Ferechide Dumitru , Neagoe Ioana Cristina , Lupușoru Gabriela Elena , Sporea Corina , Lupușoru Mircea Ovidiu Denis
Published: July 2023

Proximal humerus fracture ranks third in the elderly after femoral neck fractures and distal radius fractures, and seventh in adults, and the risk of occurrence is related to advancing age. In this study we aimed to analyze the efficacy of a 24-weeks physical therapy programme based on a particular methodology consisting of the reprogramming of the specific proprioceptive neuromuscular facil-itation techniques added to the classical physical therapy and by introducing modern interactive therapies and technologies: Capacitive Resistive Electric Transference, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization, kinesiological tapes and PRAMA system, compared with classical physical therapy. Our study included 26 patients, aged between 18 and 55 years, with proximal humerus fracture, who complete the 24-weeks rehabilitation programme. We assessed pain, shoulder range of motion, muscle strength and the ability to perform activities of daily living. The statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS and Excel 2021. The results showed statistically significant im-provement in all shoulder motion, increased muscle strength, decreased pain, and a better ability to perform daily activities. The physical therapy programme based on the proposed particular methodology has proven to be more effective than classical physical therapy, both regarding the improvement of the movement parameters compared to the physiological values, as well as the symmetry of both shoulders.
Current data regarding homeostasis of tissues oxygenation in pathophysiological and therapeutic circumstances
Authors: Munteanu Constantin , Călin Mihaela Antonina , Manea Dragoș , Popescu Cristina , Iliescu Mădălina , Ionescu Elena Valentina , Stanciu Liliana , Minea Mihaela , Oprea Carmen , Oprea Doinița , Rotariu Mariana , Onose Gelu
Published: July 2023

Abstract: Oxygen is essential for cellular respiration and energy production. Tissue oxygenation refers to delivering oxygen to cells throughout the body. Microcirculation brings blood through small sanguine vessels to maintain the cells' supply of nutrients and oxygen. Optimal tissue ox-ygenation and microcirculation are essential for maintaining healthy tissue. Conversely, poor oxygenation can cause tissue damage, impair wound healing, and increase infection risk. Several factors can affect tissue oxygenation and microcirculation, including age, lifestyle factors (such as smoking and stress), and underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes and high blood pres-sure). To improve tissue oxygenation and microcirculation, individuals can engage in healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and avoiding smoking. Tissue oxygenation can also be looked therapeutic, given that topical and cosmetic treatments such as massage, pelotherapy, hydrotherapy, moisturizers, and certain skin care products can help promote healthy microcirculation at the somatic level. In the scientific literature, the focus is on hypoxia rather than tissue oxygenation. This article proposes a paradigm shift and emphasizes the homeostatic importance of microcirculation and tissue oxygenation in pathophysiological and therapeutic circumstances. The systematic review of the data from the last 2 years (2021-2022) and the meta-analysis performed on tissue oxygenation will contribute to the practical approach to the pathology circumscribed to tissue oxygenation.
Keywords: Tissue oxygenation; Hypoxia; Microcirculation; Homeostasis; Microenvironment
Construction and validation of a new scale for measuring dimensions of the heterosexual identity: The Male Identity Scale (MIS)
Authors: Daoultzis Konstantinos Christos , Kordoutis Panos
Published: July 2023

This study provides preliminary psychometric data on a newly designed self-report measure assessing heterosexual male identity dimensions; it is labelled Male Identity Scale (MIS) and is an adaptation from the Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Scale (Mohr & Kedra, 2011) that takes into account the theoretical models by Marcia (1987) and Worthington et al. (2002) concerning heterosexual identity development. Two studies were conducted to evaluate the validity and reliability of the MIS. In Study 1 (n = 563 straight men) an Exploratory Factor Analysis and a Confirmatory Factor Analysis supported a 5-factor solution reflecting heterosexual male identity dimensions such as Acceptance Concerns, Identity Uncertainty, Identity Superiority, Identity Centrality and Heteronormativity. Predicted associations with measures of masculinity-related constructs and psychosocial functioning provided preliminary validity evidence for MIS scores in an undergraduate university male student population. Study 2 (n = 116 straight men) provided evidence of the test–retest and internal consistency reliability of MIS scores. These studies suggest that the MIS may offer researchers an efficient means of assessing the multiple dimensions of heterosexual male identity.
Μια Θετική Ψυχολογική Παρέμβαση για την ενίσχυση θετικών χαρακτηριστικών παιδιών και εφήβων με νεοπλασματικές παθήσεις
Authors: Σολδάτου Σπυριδούλα , Λεοντοπούλου Σόφη
Published: July 2023

Η παρούσα μελέτη είχε σκοπό να διερευνήσει την αποτελεσματικότητα μιας Θετικής Ψυχολογικής Παρέμβασης σε παιδιά και εφήβους με νεοπλασματικές παθήσεις. Εστιάστηκε στην ενίσχυση των θετικών συναισθημάτων, της ελπιδοφόρας σκέψης και της ψυχικής ανθεκτικότητας, μέσω της αναγνώρισης και ανάπτυξης θετικών χαρακτηριστικών 25 αγοριών (Ν = 13) και κοριτσιών (Ν = 12) ηλικίας 10 έως 15 ετών. Το δείγμα αποτελούνταν από άτομα που ακολουθούσαν θεραπευτική αγωγή σε Ογκολογικές Μονάδες Παίδων στην Αθήνα και φιλοξενούνταν στον ξενώνα «Φλόγα». Η παρέμβαση περιλάμβανε δύο ομάδες, μία ομάδα παρέμβασης και μία ομάδα ελέγχου και πραγματοποιήθηκε σε τρεις συναντήσεις, σε απόσταση τουλάχιστον μίας εβδομάδας μεταξύ τους και για τις δύο ομάδες. Οι συμμετέχοντες/ουσες συμπλήρωσαν μια συστοιχία ερωτηματολογίων πριν την παρέμβαση, αμέσως μετά την  ολοκλήρωση και των τριών συναντήσεων, όπως και έναν μήνα μετά την ολοκλήρωση της παρέμβασης. Εκτός από κοινωνικο-δημογραφικές ερωτήσεις, το ερωτηματολόγιο περιλάμβανε ευρέως χρησιμοποιούμενες κλίμακες για καθεμία από τις μεταβλητές, καθώς και ειδικά σχεδιασμένες ερωτήσεις για την αξιολόγηση της παρέμβασης. Η Θετική Ψυχολογική Παρέμβαση αποδείχτηκε αποτελεσματική, αυξάνοντας τα θετικά συναισθήματα, την ελπιδοφόρα σκέψη και την ψυχική ανθεκτικότητα της ομάδας παρέμβασης σε σχέση με την ομάδα ελέγχου. Τα αποτελέσματα διατηρήθηκαν και κατά τον επανέλεγχο. Η ομάδα παρέμβασης, σε αντίθεση με την ομάδα ελέγχου, αξιολόγησε την παρέμβαση θετικά, θεωρώντας ότι επέδρασε ευεργετικά και ενίσχυσε όλες τις εξεταζόμενες μεταβλητές. Τα αποτελέσματα συζητούνται ως προς την σημασία τους για τον σχεδιασμό και τη διεξαγωγή στοχευμένων ψυχοεκπαιδευτικών παρεμβάσεων για νεαρά άτομα με νεοπλασματικές και άλλες παθήσεις.
Determinants of fruit consumption in adult women in Indonesia
Authors: Malkan Bakhrul Ilmi Ibnu , Nur Hasan Syah Muhammad , Wahyuningsih Utami , Crosita Octaria Yessi
Published: July 2023

Background: Fruit consumption in Indonesia is low, while diet related diseases are climbing, including among adult women where obesity prevalence is the highest. This study aimed to analyze determinants of fruit consumption among adult women aged 19–49 years in the country. Methods: Analysis was done to secondary data on food consumption obtained from a cross sectional survey of the national Basic Health Research 2010. The potential determinants analyzed were nutritional status (body mass index, BMI), age, formal education, marital status, economic status (quintile), and region. The logistic regression model was applied. Results: The results showed that adult women in Indonesia had higher odds of consuming more fruits if they were with higher BMI (OR BMI > 25=1.093, CI:1.026–1.165), in the older age group (OR middle-aged adult=1.079, CI:1.013–1.150), had higher educational status (OR completed elementary School or higher=2.070, CI:1.909–2.244), from higher economic status (OR high=2.258, CI:2.112–2.413), and resided in urban regions (OR urban area=1.305, CI:1.230–1.385). Meanwhile, being married appeared to hinder fruit consumption (OR=0.915, CI:0.849–0.986). Conclusions: Fruit consumption among adult women in Indonesia showed disparities between socioeconomic and sociodemographic characteristics. Thus intervention to improve fruit consumption should involve improving nutritional knowledge, especially among those with lower level of consumption (e.g married women), as well as improving access and availability of fruit for women from lower socioeconomic status and rural areas. This could include the use of locally available fruits that is less expensive and more accessible.
Effectiveness of half-day interactive continuing medical education workshop in improving oncologists’ knowledge in prescribing opioids
Authors: Almouaalamy Nabil A. , Abrar Mohammed B. , Adem Sittelbenat H. , Alnatsheh Abdelmajid
Published: July 2023

Background: Patients with cancer commonly experience persistent pain, and opioids have remained the mainstay of pain treatment because of their rapid effectiveness in treating moderate to severe pain. As medicine progresses, we need to establish continuous medical education sessions to educate, update, and establish competency in opioid prescribing in cancer patients.

Aim: The objective of this study was to explore whether continuing medical education interventions improve oncologists’ knowledge about pain management when prescribing opioids.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional prospective pre- post-test study. Continuing medical education workshops lasting three identical half-days was offered in 2019. Training sessions were held at the Princess Noorah Oncology Education Center. A total of 40 participants were recruited from a single discipline (oncology) rather than from multiple disciplines for the workshops. The continuing medical education program included six lectures and case presentations. An assessment of 16 multiple-choice questions (case scenario format) with four options was administered to the participants before the training workshop.

Results: The mean scores of the participants’ knowledge increased from 9.48 (pre-test) to 11.93 (post-test). This improvement was statistically significant (p < 0.001). A novel finding of this study is that continuing medical education lasting a half-day is as effective as a one-day workshop and even superior to traditional continuing medical education lasting two days.

Conclusions: A half-day continuing medical education program significantly improved physicians’ knowledge of prescribing opioids in cancer patients. This study suggests that a well-designed continuing medical education program is essential for its success.
Upper extremity kinematics of a 3D reach-to-grasp-to-mouth task in sub-acute stroke survivors in comparison with healthy controls
Authors: Sardesai Sanjukta , Solomon M John , Arumugam Ashokan , Dylan Nazareth Elton , R Pai Aparna , Kumaran D Senthil
Published: July 2023

Background

Only 5-20% of stroke survivors exhibit almost complete motor recovery at six months post-stroke. The Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable (SRRR) Taskforce has recommended the use of performance assays that predict recovery. However, not much is known about the differences across various stroke severity groups.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether kinematic parameters of time, average velocity, shoulder angles and elbow angles were able to distinguish upper extremity movement capacity in individuals with varying levels of stroke severity and healthy controls.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, which is part of a large cohort study. 27 sub-acute stroke survivors (58.8 ± 12.7 years; 18 males, 9 females; categorized into mild (51-66), moderate (25-50) and severe (<25) Fugl Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FM-UE) categories and 10 healthy controls (48.9 ± 13.7 years; 6 males, 4 females) performed 20 trials of a 3D reach-to-grasp-to-mouth task. Kinematic parameters were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA test.

Results: Movement time was significantly different between severe and all other stroke groups (mild [p<0.001], moderate [p<0.001]) and healthy controls (p<0.001). Average velocity was significantly different between all three stroke groups (mild [p=0.03], moderate [p<0.001], severe [d= -3.7, p<0.001]) and healthy controls. Elbow flexion was significantly different between moderate and severe stroke groups (p=0.009). Elbow extension showed significant differences between mild and moderate stroke groups (p<0.001). Shoulder extension exhibited significant differences between mild (p<0.001), moderate (p<0.001) and severe (p<0.001) and healthy controls.

Conclusions: Kinematic analysis of a reach-to-grasp-to-mouth task helps to differentiate between varying groups of severity post-stroke such as mild, moderate and severe, based on Fugl Meyer for Upper Extremity scores.
Unraveling the secrets of plant roots: Simplified method for large scale root exudate sampling and analysis in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Subrahmaniam Harihar Jaishree , Lind Salomonsen Camilla , Radutoiu Simona , Ehlers Bodil K. , Glasius Marianne
Published: July 2023

Background: Plants exude a plethora of compounds to communicate with their environment. Although much is known about above-ground plant communication, we are only beginning to fathom the complexities of below-ground chemical communication channels. Studying root-exuded compounds and their role in plant communication has been difficult due to the lack of standardized methodologies. Here, we develop an interdisciplinary workflow to explore the natural variation in root exudate chemical composition of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. We highlight key challenges associated with sampling strategies and develop a framework for analyzing both narrow- and broad-scale patterns of root exudate composition in a large set of natural A. thaliana accessions.

Methods: Our method involves cultivating individual seedlings in vitro inside a plastic mesh, followed by a short hydroponic sampling period in small quantities of ultrapure water. The mesh makes it easy to handle plants of different sizes and allows for large-scale characterization of individual plant root exudates under axenic conditions. This setup can also be easily extended for prolonged temporal exudate collection experiments. Furthermore, the short sampling time minimizes the duration of the experiment while still providing sufficient signal even with small volume of the sampling solution. We used ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS) for untargeted metabolic profiling, followed by tentative compound identification using MZmine3 and SIRIUS 5 software, to capture a broad overview of root exudate composition in A. thaliana accessions.

Results: Based on 28 replicates of the Columbia genotype (Col-0) compared with 10 random controls, MZmine3 identified 354 metabolites to be present only in Col-0 by negative ionization. Of these, 254 compounds could be annotated by SIRIUS 5 software.

Conclusions: The methodology developed in this study can be used to broadly investigate the role of root exudates as chemical signals in plant belowground interactions.
Higher education and technology
Authors: Nunes Danilo , Portes Jerônimo Henrique , Azevedo Santos Simeia , Trevisan Leonardo Nelmi
Published: July 2023

Technology has accelerated the process of change, giving rise to new ways of working. This study seeks to explore the perspectives of careers by relating them to university backgrounds and new technologies, based on women's perception. The research was applied in the first cycles of 7 undergraduate courses, with 148 respondent students. The results indicate an optimistic view regarding the future of the woman's career, but there are contrasts, such as the degree of knowledge of some technical terms. From the results, a proposal for the Women's Career Perception Index – WCPI was developed.
A história de vida na pesquisa em Administração
Authors: Teixeira Rodilon , Da Costa Lemos Ana Heloísa , Tarabal Lopes Fernanda
Published: July 2023

O artigo mapeou a evolução do debate e dos usos do método história de vida no campo da Administração, no Brasil, e apresentou sugestões de caminhos a serem percorridos por pesquisadores interessados no método. Para tanto, foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica de trabalhos apresentados nos ENANPADs e em periódicos nacionais, entre 2001 e 2020. Os achados apresentam o panorama das pesquisas nacionais com o uso do método história de vida. Além disso, apresenta-se sugestões de percursos práticos no que diz respeito, especialmente, à questão da entrevista de história de vida e às possibilidades analíticas e de organização do material biográfico.
Comportamento inovador em uma empresa de telecomunicações
Authors: Do Rêgo Bezerra Maria de Fatima , Varela de Melo Geison Calyo , De Oliveira Rego Sidnéia Maia , Machado Fernandes Júnior José Vivaldo
Published: July 2023

A pesquisa buscou analisar o comportamento inovador dos colaboradores que atuam em uma empresa de telecomunicações no Ceará. O estudo é exploratório, descritivo e quantitativo, com dados coletados mediante um levantamento (questionário), com 187 colaboradores e tratados pela estatística descritiva e análise fatorial, respaldado pela Teoria do Desenvolvimento Organizacional, desenvolvida por Bradford (1962) e pela Teoria do Comportamento Planejado, elaborada por Ajzen (1985). Os resultados apontam uma organização dinâmica e flexível, que promove estímulos e apoia o comportamento inovador, porém, demonstra-se necessário aperfeiçoar o ambiente e estrutura organizacional. Por fim, ao ser adotado o comportamento inovador com frequência, resulta-se na inovação organizacional e dos processos, que promove a inovação, desenvolvimento e competitividade organizacional.
Representações sociais sobre empreendedorismo feminino em webséries do Sebrae
Authors: Bizarria Fabiana Pinto de Almeida , Rodrigues Danielle Maria Apolonio , Silva Gabriele Ferreira da , Barbosa Flávia Lorenne Sampaio
Published: July 2023

A pesquisa objetiva apreender representações sociais presentes em narrativas a partir de webséries do SEBRAE, sobre empreendedorismo feminino. A lexicometria, ou análise lexical (Marchand, 2013), realizada com o software Iramuteq, considerou a (i) Classificação Hierárquica Descendente – CHD e (ii) a Análise Fatorial por Correspondência (AFC), e (iv) análise de conteúdo hermenêutica-dialética (Minayo,1992). Como resultado, quatro temas de discussões Empreendedora ‘mulher-mãe’; Expectativas Sociais da ‘Mulher-Maravilha’, Sonhadora ‘Sexo-Frágil’; Desafios do ‘Poder-Ser’ ‘mulher-mãe-empreendedora’; e (Re)Conhecer e (Re)Existir, reúnem 21 categorias emergentes, que, em conjunto, acionam discussões voltadas ao conflito, ante o choque representacional tradicional e novos espaços/papeis sociais assumidos pelas mulheres.
Sharing videos on whatsapp
Authors: Souza Lucas Lopes Ferreira , Freitas Ana Augusta Ferreira , Mota Márcio de Oliveira , Victor Caio
Published: July 2023

The research sought to verify how different types of videos influence WhatsApp users. The study, descriptive and quantitative, had a sample (n = 208) non-probabilistic and by accessibility. Data were collected by online questionnaires. Structural Equation Modeling and ANOVA were used. The results show that the preference for video content and entertainment causes behavioral changes. Furthermore, video content influences sharing intention and attitude towards the ad. The article presents unprecedented empirical evidence between WhatsApp and the Theory of Uses and Gratification (U&G).
Happiness and Wealth: Satisfaction, well-being, and ROA Relationship
Authors: Souza Juliana Nascimento de , Fogaça Natasha , Souza João Gabriel de Moraes , Albuquerque Pedro Henrique Melo
Published: July 2023

We investigated happiness at work reflected in the indexes presented by the 100 best companies to work for in the United States, as well as its impact on Return on Assets (ROA). Indicators used by Glassdoor were collected, as well as financial data from the Eikon. We performed a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to obtain the Happiness at Work General Index. The results were applied to regression to understand the relationship between the index and the ROA. Happiness at Work General Index and ROA are positively related, providing evidence that happiness at work positively impacts the operational performance of companies.
Level of active transparency of Local Social Security Systems of municipalities in state of Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Jacques de Lima Gilmarcos , De Sá André Eustáquio Buzetti , Leite Padgett Rosamaria Cox Moura
Published: July 2023

The present study sought to measure the level of active transparency of the Local Social Security Systems (RPPSs) of municipalities in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. To this end, the Indicator of Active Transparency of RPPSs (RITA) was constructed, supported by the observations present in the Access to Information Law (LAI), as well as in the RPPS Pro-Management Manual. The number of RPPSs in the sample for this study was 50 entities. The data for measuring the RITA were collected in each RPPS’s institutional web portal. The results show that only 30% of the RPPSs analyzed showed a level of active transparency between moderate (11) and desired (4).
Fatores para o desenvolvimento de inovação social em empresas sociais brasileiras
Authors: Silva Lucilene
Published: July 2023

A inovação social (IS) tem sido incentivada por diversas organizações por ser um mecanismo de soluções mais eficientes para atender necessidades sociais melhorando a qualidade de vida de pessoas e comunidades. Entretanto, a IS apresenta dificuldades e o gerenciamento de fatores e o uso de práticas de gestão podem influenciar o sucesso da inovação. Através do método survey com 53 empresas sociais (ES), utilizando a análise de regressão multivariada, identificou-se que as práticas de gerenciamento de risco e gestão de stakeholders impactam diretamente o desempenho da IS em ES. A partir desses resultados, construiu-se um modelo de gestão da IS com o objetivo de apoiar os empreendedores sociais na escolha e utilização de ferramentas mais eficientes no processo de IS.
Heritage without an heir
Authors: Figueiredo Marina Dantas de
Published: July 2023

Based on data from ethnographic research, this paper reports how the transmission of practical know-how results from embodied intentionality and perpetuates social, cultural, and historical structures. The studied family business context shows that the process of know-how transmission follows specific intentionality explained through traditional relations. Although such know-how guides a relatively simple production system, the fact that most people involved in it do not achieve complete mastery indicates that the transference of this embodied knowledge is more than the willingness or interest to teach and learn this practice.
Trabalho gerencial
Authors: Melo Marlene Catarina de Oliveira Lopes , Lopes Ana Lúcia Magri , Faria Vilma Santos Pereira de
Published: July 2023

Esta pesquisa objetivou contribuir com o debate sobre trabalho gerencial ao reunir constructos relativos às contradições vivenciadas e expectativas, na perspectiva de gerentes de organizações, em Belo Horizonte/MG. Realizou-se uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva, com 40 gerentes homens e mulheres. Os resultados apontaram três categorias associadas às contradições vivenciadas no ambiente de trabalho: significado do “ser gerente”, autonomia do gerente versus (in)subordinação dos funcionários, bônus versus ônus do cargo gerencial. As expectativas estão relacionadas às estratégias para a carreira gerencial e desejo de permanecer atuando como gerente, apesar dos desafios e adversidades da função.
Decision-making factors in the adoption of smart contracts in Brazilian companies
Authors: Moreira Lopes Alan , Peinado Jurandir , Vianna Fernando Ressetti Pinheiro Marques , Kanashiro Meneghetti Francis
Published: July 2023

This article seeks to identify the main factors in adopting smart contracts and the way these factors are known and taken into account by Brazilian companies. Thus, we conducted 30 interviews among Brazilian businesses. Results confirmed the existence of an alignment among the perspectives of the characteristics, benefits and adoption factors for smart contracts. Also, it was possible to conclude that the practice of smart contracts is still incipient in Brazil, and the prospects for applying them in companies have been spurred by the health restrictions put in place by the combat against COVID-19.
Vivências de prazer-sofrimento no contexto de escolas com diferentes performances
Authors: Portela Priscila , Batista dos Santos Ana Cristina , Aguiar Araújo Andressa , Souza Evaristo Jorge Luiz
Published: July 2023

A pesquisa objetivou compreender comparativamente as vivências de prazer-sofrimento promovidas pela dinâmica do reconhecimento do trabalho docente, em escolas com performances contrastantes, sob as lentes da Psicodinâmica do Trabalho. A pesquisa investiga se há diferença na dinâmica do reconhecimento e nas vivências de prazer-sofrimento de docentes que atuam em escolas com diferentes desempenhos no Índice de Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica (IDEB). A metodologia foi de natureza qualitativa com realização de entrevistas com docentes do terceiro ano. Identificou-se diferenciação nas vivências das docentes em comparação aos diferentes desempenhos das escolas no IDEB. Tal resultado confirmou o pressuposto assumido na pesquisa.
Práticas de RH na Pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: Luchi Raissa , De Araujo Vasconcelos Kátia Cyrlene , Bellia Margoto Julia
Published: July 2023

A pandemia de Covid-19 impôs desafios para a função Recursos Humanos (RH). Esta pesquisa analisou as percepções dos trabalhadores de uma empresa de tecnologia sobre as práticas de RH adotadas durante a pandemia. Os dados da entrevista com a Gestora de RH e do questionário de Escala de Percepção de Políticas de Gestão de Pessoas (EPPGP), respondido por 52 profissionais da organização Alpha, indicam níveis de concordância nas práticas de Recrutamento e Seleção, Envolvimento e Condições de Trabalho. Por outro lado, identificam-se níveis de baixa concordância quanto às práticas de Treinamento e Desenvolvimento, Avaliação de Desempenho e Remuneração, evidenciando oportunidades de aperfeiçoamento das políticas e práticas de RH frente aos impactos da pandemia nas relações de trabalho.