bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Graph representation learning in bioinformatics: trends, methods and applications
Authors: Yi Hai-Cheng , You Zhu-Hong , Huang De-Shuang , Kwoh Chee Keong 
Published: August 2021

AbstractGraph is a natural data structure for describing complex systems, which contains a set of objects and relationships. Ubiquitous real-life biomedical problems can be modeled as graph analytics tasks. Machine learning, especially deep learning, succeeds in vast bioinformatics scenarios with data represented in Euclidean domain. However, rich relational information between biological elements is retained in the non-Euclidean biomedical graphs, which is not learning friendly to classic machine learning methods. Graph representation learning aims to embed graph into a low-dimensional space while preserving graph topology and node properties. It bridges biomedical graphs and modern machine learning methods and has recently raised widespread interest in both machine learning and bioinformatics communities. In this work, we summarize the advances of graph representation learning and its representative applications in bioinformatics. To provide a comprehensive and structured analysis and perspective, we first categorize and analyze both graph embedding methods (homogeneous graph embedding, heterogeneous graph embedding, attribute graph embedding) and graph neural networks. Furthermore, we summarize their representative applications from molecular level to genomics, pharmaceutical and healthcare systems level. Moreover, we provide open resource platforms and libraries for implementing these graph representation learning methods and discuss the challenges and opportunities of graph representation learning in bioinformatics. This work provides a comprehensive survey of emerging graph representation learning algorithms and their applications in bioinformatics. It is anticipated that it could bring valuable insights for researchers to contribute their knowledge to graph representation learning and future-oriented bioinformatics studies.
Advancing Diagnostic Stewardship for Healthcare-Associated Infections, Antibiotic Resistance, and Sepsis
Authors: Curren Emily J , Lutgring Joseph D , Kabbani Sarah , Diekema Daniel J , Gitterman Steven , Lautenbach Ebbing , Morgan Daniel J , Rock Clare , Salerno Reynolds M , McDonald L Clifford 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Diagnostic stewardship means ordering the right tests for the right patient at the right time to inform optimal clinical care. Diagnostic stewardship is an integral part of antibiotic stewardship efforts to optimize antibiotic use and improve patient outcomes, including reductions in antibiotic resistance and treatment of sepsis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Division of Healthcare Quality Promotion hosted a meeting on improving patient safety through diagnostic stewardship with a focus on use of the laboratory. At the meeting, emerging issues in the field of diagnostic stewardship were identified, awareness of these issues among stakeholders was raised, and strategies and interventions to address the issues were discussed—all with an emphasis on improved outcomes and patient safety. Here, we summarize the key takeaways of the meeting including needs for diagnostic stewardship implementation, promising future avenues for diagnostic stewardship implementation, and areas of needed research.
Person-centred care-based crisis management: facing COVID-19 in an oil industry
Authors: Rodrigues Mariana Costa , de Assis Martins da Silva Vanessa Uchoa , Albuquerque Rafael Amaral , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Viterbo Lilian Monteiro Ferrari 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
The study aims to present the strategies used in person-centred care, through measures to promote and prevent COVID-19 pandemic in an oil industry in Brazil. The corporate focus is on managing the crisis, converging economic interests, operational security, health and protection of individuals.

Methods
In March 2020, a ‘Crisis Room’ was structured, based on the Incident Command System (ICS) methodology for managing interventions in the company, covering about 160 000 workers and 1000 health professionals, including physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers and nutritionists. The main strategies were: production of technical notes on COVID 19, development of software for monitoring cases, call-centre through a specialized centre with medical and psychological support, test implementation, implementation of sanitary barriers with temperature verification and filling of forms, as well as systematic technical forums.

Results
In the period of 1 year, 46 technical notes were produced, 61 388 cases were recorded and monitored, 30 373 gold standard tests (RT PCR), 484 686 rapid tests, 25 217 workers approached at health barriers and an average of 350 systematic technical forums, were carried out.

Conclusions
Attention to the presented scenario and the mapping of the particularities in the emergency response are fundamental for decision-making, which can be impacted by the absence of strategies still in the reactive phase of the emergency. Despite the adoption of the ICS methodology in the management of the COVID-19 crisis, the incorporation of instruments aimed at individual-centred care were key strategies and foundations that have guaranteed work safety and the maintenance of productivity in this oil company within pandemic context.
Work ability and psychosocial risk factors among professionals at a higher education institution
Authors: Simões Helder , Ferreira Ana , Figueiredo João Paulo , Loureiro António , Seco Silvia , Gonçalves Ana 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
Currently, we live in a society that is too competitive and with aggressive physical and social environments, which triggers profound changes in work conditions and requirements. Pressures are constantly being felt that foster the increase in psychosocial risks, altering the psychological, physical and social balance of the human being with serious implications for the health of the worker.

Methods
The present study aimed to understand whether the ability of professionals in a Higher Education Institution to work is influenced by sociodemographic variables (age, gender, marital status, educational qualifications, function); whether psychosocial factors are influenced by sociodemographic variables (age, gender, marital status, educational qualifications, function) and whether the ability to work varies depending on psychosocial factors. For data collection, a two parts questionnaire was applied. The first part of the questionnaire was dedicated to collecting sociodemographic data and assessing the perception of workers' ability to work, through the Work Ability Index (WAI). The second part concerned the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ), to identify factors of exposure to psychosocial risk factors.

Results
The average work capacity was 41.07 points, which corresponded to a ‘good’ work capacity. In the COPSOQ results, no critical values were identified in the subscales. We found that the ability to work varies according to psychosocial risk factors.

Conclusions
We conclude that the variable age influences the ability to work. As for the remaining sociodemographic variables, although this study did not show statistically significant differences, they also seem to influence the WAI.
Health literacy and cardiovascular disease in type 2 diabetes—a cross-sectional study
Authors: Melo Jmp , Rosendo Icsc , Santiago Lmms , Simões Ja , Santos Paap 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
The macrovascular complications are the main cause of death of diabetic patients. Health literacy is the capacity one can have in order to acquire, interpret, understand and communicate the information related to health, necessary for the diabetes control and, consequently, for the cardiovascular prevention. The main goal of this project is to understand the relationship between health literacy and the occurrence of cardiovascular events in a person with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as its relationship with adherence, enablement and quality of life.

Methods
Cross-sectional national pilot study of a prospective cohort, carried out in persons with DM2 selected by convenience in aleatory health regions. The Medical Term Recognition Test, the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities, the Diabetes Empowerment Scale–short version-and the European Quality of Life–Visual analogue scale-were used. The Spearman correlation and the U of Mann Whitney test were used for statistical analysis.

Results
No significative relation was found between health literacy and the occurrence of cardiovascular events. However, people with previous isquemic coronary disease had an inferior evaluation in the literacy scale. People with more literacy were more predisposed to adhere to a specific diet, but not so much to physical activities. There was a significative relation between health literacy and the values of LDL (P = 0.046), age (P ≤ 0.001), education (P ≤ 0.001) and the Socio Economic Deprivation Index (P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions
It is essential to continue to amplify the sample so that the longitudinal research can be achieved.
2019 cardio-vascular risk and socioeconomic classification in central Portugal
Authors: Santiago Luiz Miguel , Castro Maria 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
The relationship between Cardiovascular Risk (CVR) and the socio-economic family classification (SEC) by the Graffar Index in the Portuguese General and Family Medicine setting is still unknown being an impoirtant Health determinant. SEC interferes with disease perception altering possible health out-comes. Use of specific tools can improve patient’s guidance. So the knowledge of the frequency of estimation of CVR and SEC to understand how they were distributed and related in the Primary Care population of Central Portugal, according to sex, age and place of residence was made using Primary Care generated data.

Methods
Cross-sectional observational study based on informatics data in anonymity of the population attending all the National Health Service Primary Care Health Units in Central Portugal in December 31, 2019, aged [40–65] years with descriptive and non-parametric analysis at P &lt; 0.05.

Results
In a Universe of 707 806 CVR was calculated for 27.9%, SEC for 2.5% and both simultaneously for 1.2%. CVR distribution was different by gender (P &lt; 0.001), High/very high risk more prevalent in males. By age group, High/Very high CVR was more prevalent in those over 60 years of age (P &lt; 0.001) and if residing in the southern and more in-land locations presenting a higher risk (P &lt; 0.001). High/very high CVR was more frequent in SEC lower classes (P = 0.047).

Conclusions
Cardiovascular risk and socioeconomic status were simultaneously registered in 1.2% of the population. Highest Cardiovascular Risk is more frequent in lower SEC classes, males, older and residing in the southern region. Docotr's awareness on these themes mst be increased.
Novel clusters of type 2 diabetes mellitus and their outcomes: relationship between pharmacological treatment and microvascular complications
Authors: Santos Claudio , Brito-Costa Sónia , Margalho Luis , Monteiro Pedro 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is the most common form of diabetes in adults being characterized by an ineffective use of insulin or inefficient production by the pancreas. This study aims to study the relationship between microvascular complications and pharmacological treatment for T2DM.

Methods
191 participants (EG) with T2DM with the average of 70.3 years (SD = 8.3) and 36 with pre-diabetes (CG) with an average of 62 years (SD = 10.3) who participated in clinical trials at Clinical Research Unit in Cardiology of Coimbra Hospital and Universitary Centre without cognitive difficulties, were divided in 5 different clusters. These were established based on six different variables: body mass index (BMI), age of each individual, age at diagnosis of DMT2, glycated haemoglobin value (HbA1c), homeostatic model that estimates the function of β cells (HOMA2-B) and insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR).

Results
Cluster 1 presented pre-diabetic individuals (15.9%), while diabetic individuals were divided into clusters 2 (1.8%), 3 (17.6%), 4 (21.1%) and 5 (43.6%). Regarding the study of the prevalence of microvascular complications, it was concluded that only chronic kidney disease (CKD) was found in most different groups. For the prevalence of pharmacological treatment for DMT2, it was found that metformin was the most used drug. It was observed a relationship between previous CKD and metformin administration in clusters 3 (P = 0.0012; P &lt; 0.05), 4 (P = 9.41E-5; P &lt; 0.05) and 5 (P = 0.0004; P &lt; 0.05).

Conclusions
It was possible to observe the existence of dependency relationships between pharmacological treatment and different microvascular complications for DMT2.
Differences in controlled versus uncontrolled arterial hypertension in a primary health care centre—a quality improvement cycle study
Authors: Reis M T , Roque A C , Pinto M , Santiago L M 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide and uncontrolled Arterial Hypertension (AH) is the most important involved risk factor. An observational study published in 2019 found differences between controlled and uncontrolled AH patients, namely less frequent chronotherapy and family history health records. We aimed to study medical designed population based interventions to reach an increase in controlled AH defining a set of growth dynamics (Δ) ≥ +5 in AH prevalence of control defined for a value of 140/90 mmHg.

Methods
2019 results were presented in small medical teams weekly periodic scientific meetings and upon such awareness strategies were developed for improving AH control, according to the best practice evidence available. Data were collected, 6 months later, in a randomized representative sample of AH patients in each Primary Care Health Unit for a confidence interval 95%, error margin of 5%. Descriptive and inferential analysis, for a P &lt; 0.001 and growth dynamics (Δ) were calculated.

Results
In a n = 148 sample there was a significant improvement in the rate of controlled hypertension (43.9% to 67.9%, P &lt; 0.001, Δ = +54.0). Chronotherapy improved from 29.0% to 66.2% (P &lt; 0.001), Δ = +128.3) and family medical records also improved (88.1% to 100%, Δ + 11.9).

Conclusions
Significant rise in the prevalence of AH control was achieved after informative and formative intervention. Chronotherapy was significantly improved, allowing a 67.9% AH control. Family medical records also significantly improved. Healthcare professional’s knowledge and reflection about their clinical activity seem to be important tools to achieve better results and hopefully health outcomes, in Arterial Hypertension.
Assessment of thermal comfort levels in aviary workers
Authors: Ferreira Ana , Simões Helder , Figueiredo João Paulo , Seco Silvia , Loureiro António , Carvalho Carolina 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
The occurrence of biohazards in avian work environments has been a cause of concern. Additionally, studies on this working environment carried out by Health and Safety at Work professionals are scarce. The weaknesses of birds regarding ideal temperatures for development, depending on their gestational stage is well known. Now it is important to look into the effects temperatures inside the aviaries have on workers and specifically the contrast of these with external temperatures in winter time.

Methods
The goal of this study is to assess thermal comfort through the use of the PMV (Predicted Mean Vote) and PPD (Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied) indexes. It was carried out at 8 aviaries belonging to two separate companies, located in Portugal. The target-population was the workforce of the two companies, making up a total of 6 employees. Measurements of environmental parameters were carried out (radiating temperature, relative humidity, air temperature and air speed), as well as individual parameters related to thermal comfort (metabolic rate and thermal resistance of workers clothing) inside and outside the aviaries. This study is classified as a level III (co relational) observational and analytical study, with a cross-section cut and a convenience non-probabilistic sampling type.

Results
The thermal discomfort suffered by these workers in an avian environment was noteworthy, when exposed to different, contrasting temperatures, particularly in the winter season.

Conclusions
Despite the different personal characteristics, it is possible to create environments that are thermally acceptable, that is, to satisfy the majority of its occupants.
Occupational exposure of workers to noise in a carpentry
Authors: Ferreira Ana , Seco Silvia , Figueiredo João Paulo , Loureiro António , Gomes António 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
Currently, we can find a more industrialized and developed society that has contributed to the large-scale expansion of sound levels. Noise is already identified as one of the main risk factors for the health of workers, due to the high frequency of workers daily exposed and risky professional activities. In this sense, it is necessary to carry out assessments of occupational noise in order to understand whether or not workers' exposure is within the limit values and what preventive measures to adopt.

Methods
The present study had as main objective to evaluate the occupational exposure to noise of the workers of a carpentry, located in a municipality in the Center of Portugal, and to understand its influence on their health. Measurements were performed using two devices, a Cesva dosimeter, model DC 112 and a Cesva model SC420 sound level meter.

Results
The results obtained demonstrated the existence of noise in some of the evaluated workstations and also the existence of some workers exposed to high levels of noise. It was also possible to observe that although all workers have hearing protection, it is not always effective.

Conclusions
We conclude that carpentry is a noise-producing work environment, and with the help of appropriate collective and/or individual protective equipment, it is possible to mitigate this exposure to noise, either by workers or by machines/equipment, ensuring thus the safety and health of workers.
Prevalence of acute otitis media in children younger than four years
Authors: Marques Tatiana , Fernandes Carolina , Moura Carla , Miguéis António 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
Acute otitis media (AOM) is one of the most common diseases in childhood, affecting approximately 50% of all children. The most common age range to develop AOM is 3–24 months, due to a current or recent upper respiratory tract infection, which induces the eustachian tube to develop fluid or secretion from the middle ear inflammation. The acute onset of symptoms in older children is characterized by otalgia and rubbing of the ear, however, AOM in younger children include nonspecific symptoms such as fever, irritability, or poor feeding, being unreliable guides to the diagnosis. Thus, the underdiagnosis of AOM can lead to serious complications include acute mastoiditis or meningitis. Hence, the study aims to investigate the prevalence of AOM in children younger than four years.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in a kindergarten, being enrolled children between 1 and 4 years. The protocol included otoscopy and tympanometry.

Results
A total of 23 children with a mean age of 2-year-old (SD = 0.88) were evaluated, with 17 children (34.8%) diagnosed with AOM, of whom 2 (15.4%) had unilateral alterations and 11 (84.6%) bilateral alterations.

Conclusions
AOM is one of the main childhood pathologies, affecting approximately 34.8% of younger children. Success in decreasing prevalence of AOM will depend on prevention of nasopharyngeal pathogen colonization, as well as decrease of viral upper respiratory tract infection, which can be reduced with nasal saline irrigation, a clinical and economic therapeutic approach.
Effect of musical training on auditory memory
Authors: Costa Cátia , Nazaré Cristina 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
Musical practice leads to cognitive development, requiring the activation of several processing mechanisms that are based on encoding and storing sounds through memory. The objective was to evaluate the auditory memory (ability to recognize tonal patterns) in musicians and non-musicians, comparing their performance.

Methods
Two groups with normal hearing and aged between 17 and 18 years old were compared, one of musicians (N = 14, with average of 8 years of musical training) and a control group (N = 14). Pure tone audiogram and an auditory working memory/pattern recognition test of non-verbal sounds (tonal) were performed. The participant heard 2 consecutive sequences of 6 tonal sounds each and had to say whether they were the same or different from each other. In total 30 pairs of sequences are presented (binaurally).

Results
The mean of percentage of correct responses in the memory/pattern recognition test was higher in musician’s group than in control group with statistically significant differences between groups (P = 0.002). The difference between the mean of percentage of correct responses in each group was 11.44%.

Conclusions
The musicians present better auditory memory/recognition of non-verbal (tonal) sounds in relation to the non-musicians, which points to the effectiveness of musical practice in the cognitive development of working memory and recognition of sound patterns. This study, according to others in the field, shows that musical training improves memory and auditory skills, which are known to be fundamental to the academic success of young people in this age group.
Mesenchymal stem cells immortalization's and state-of-art: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Stricker P E F , Irioda A C , Mogharbel B F , Abdelwaid E , Cavalli L R , Zotarelli-Filho I J , Carvalho K A T 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background
The immortalization of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) allows them to avoid senescence and be cultured through limitless cell passages. Thus, several experimental strategies, such as retrovirus-mediated gene transfer or viral oncogenesis, have been applied for the immortalization of MSCs. The aim was to identifier the most commonly used methodologies and their particularities for the immortalization of human and animal MSCs.

Methods
The search was conducted in June 2019 and developed in SCOPUS, PUBMED, and SCIENCE DIRECT. Statistical analysis was performed, obtaining the values of total n, mean and standard deviation, confidence interval (CI), and percentage (frequency) for all the predictors.

Results
The most used immortalization methodology was viral transfection, being the most common immortalized cell type was the bone marrow-derived MSC, and the most used gene for immortalizing both human and animal MSCs was hTERT (39.3%) and SV40T (54.5%). Among the articles analyzed in this review, only 39.3% and 36.4% of human and animal MSCs immortalization protocols, respectively, underwent the tumorigenicity test.

Conclusions
The virus-mediated gene transfection was observed as the most used and established technique. The insertion of the hTERT gene is still the most used gene for cell immortalization, suggesting that the maintenance of telomerase is efficient for maintaining cell proliferation and bypassing cell senescence. The review concluded that the tumorigenicity tests should become mandatory in order to safely use the immortalized MSCs for translation.