Integrated processing methodology to identify the spatial variability of accumulated infiltration for agricultural soil

The infiltration of water in the soil, and its variation in space, is essential to establish the irrigation schedule for crops and to evaluate the possible degrading effects on the soil. The objective was to develop an integrated processing methodology in Rstudio to identify the spatial variability of the accumulated infiltration, in two phases related to pea crops. Field sampling was carried out on a rectangular mesh with 48 points per moment, using double infiltrometer rings. The data were evaluated by means of geostatistical tools adjusted with programming code in Rstudio, defining the relationships between the magnitudes of the accumulated infiltration, for different test instants, without the need to make statistical adjustments to the normality of variables, discriminated over a period between 1 and 80 minutes. The results suggest the existence of spatial variability of the accumulated infiltration in the two evaluated phases, considering that most of the analyzed data were adjusted to multiple variance models, maintaining a degree of spatial dependence, and validating the effectiveness of the adjusted methodology developed and implemented. The spatial relationships were corroborated by means of contour maps, where the spatial variation of the accumulated infiltration between the two identified cultivation moments was observed. The reliability of the interpolation by the Ordinary Kriging method was verified by generating variance maps, establishing the degree of homogeneity of the interpolation. The variability of infiltration confirms the validity of the adjusted methodology implemented.

La infiltración del agua en el suelo y su variación espacial es fundamental para establecer la programación de riego en los cultivos y evaluar los posibles efectos degradativos en el suelo. El objetivo fue desarrollar una metodología de procesamiento integrado en Rstudio, para identificar la variabilidad espacial de la infiltración acumulada, en dos fases para un cultivo de arveja. El muestreo de campo se adelantó sobre una malla rectangular georreferenciada con 48 puntos, por cada momento, utilizando anillos infiltrómetros dobles. Los datos fueron evaluados por medio de herramientas geoestadísticas, ajustadas con código de programación en Rstudio, definiendo las relaciones entre las magnitudes de la infiltración acumulada, para diferentes instantes de prueba, sin la necesidad de realizar ajustes estadísticos de normalidad de variables, discriminados en un periodo entre 1 y 80 minutos. Los resultados sugieren la existencia de variabilidad espacial de la infiltración acumulada en las dos fases evaluadas, considerando que, la mayoría de los datos analizados, se ajustaron a múltiples modelos de semivarianza, manteniendo grados de dependencia espacial, particularmente, respecto al máximo valor acumulado de infiltración, validando la eficacia de la metodología ajustada. Las relaciones espaciales fueron corroboradas con mapas de contorno, en donde se observó la variación espacial de la infiltración acumulada entre los momentos de cultivo identificados. La confiabilidad de la interpolación por el método Kriging ordinario, se verificó mediante la generación mapas de varianza, estableciendo el grado de homogeneidad de la interpolación. La variabilidad de la infiltración confirma la validez de la metodología ajustada implementada.

Estilo cognitivo en la dimension de dependencia-independencia de campo de estudiantes universitarios del área de Manizales / Cognitive Style in the Field Dependence-independence Dimension of University Student from the Manizales Area

Resumen El presente artículo reporta un estudio que busca identificar el estilo cognitivo en la dimensión de independencia-dependencia de campo en una población estudiantil universitaria y establecer sus asociaciones con el género y la carrera que cursan. La muestra total fue de 1.379 estudiantes (797 mujeres y 582 hombres), de tres universidades del área metropolitana de Manizales, Colombia, de 18 carreras profesionales, quienes respondieron la prueba SG-EFT que permite identificar el nivel de independencia de campo. Se llevaron a cabo pruebas t de Student y análisis de varianza para examinar diferencias por género y carrera. Los resultados indican diferencias significativas en los puntajes de la prueba por carrera universitaria en independencia del género, y a su vez, se discuten en relación con resultados previos y sus implicaciones para la construcción del perfil del estudiante en cada carrera.

Abstract This paper reports a study that seeks to identify the cognitive styles, in the field independence-dependence dimension, in a university student population and to establish its associations with gender and career. The total sample consisted of 1.379 students (797 females and 582 males) from three universities in the metropolitan area of Manizales (Colombia), from 18 professional careers, who answered the SG-EFT test which measures levels of field independence. Analyses of variance and t- Student tests were carried out to examine differences by gender and career. Significant differences in the SG-EFT scores were found regarding career choice, independently of gender. Results are discussed with respect to previous findings and their implications for the construction of the student profile in each career.

La prueba de figuras enmascaradas en la versión SaWa sobre figuras Gottschaldt ­presentación e indicadores psicométricos / The Embedded Figures Test in the SaWa Version on Gottschaldt Figures ­Presentation and Psychometric Indicators­ / O teste de figuras mascaradas na versão SaWa em figuras de Gottschaldt ­Apresentação e indicadores psicométricos­

El artículo presenta la versión de la prueba EfT desarrollada por Sawa sobre las figuras Gottschaldt, como indicador de la capacidad de reestructuración perceptual y del estilo cognitivo en la dimensión de independencia- dependencia de campo. Se examina la consistencia interna del instrumento, su validez estructural y de constructo a partir de los datos recogidos en cuatro diferentes estudios en los que ha sido aplicado (n = 6.530). Los resultados indican altos niveles de consistencia interna y adecuados niveles de validez estructural del instrumento. La validez de constructo se determina mediante el examen de los comportamientos de la prueba frente al sexo y el grado/edad. Los resultados demuestran que el instrumento se comporta de acuerdo con lo esperado en el constructo. Por último, se presentan los baremos del instrumento

This paper presents the version of the Embedded Figures Test (EfT) that Sawa developed using Gottschaldt's figures. The test indicates the perceptual restructur- ing ability and the field dependence-independence dimension of cognitive style. The instrument's internal consistency and its structural and construct validity are examined using data collected in four previous studies in which the test was administered (n = 6.530). Results show high levels of internal consistency and adequate levels of structural validity. The construct validity was determined by examining the instrument's behavior regarding sex and grade/age. Results indicate that the test behaves as expected considering the construct. Finally, the instrument's norms are presented

O artigo apresenta a versão do teste EfT, desenvol- vida por Sawa sobre as figuras de Gottchaldt, como indicador da capacidade de reestruturação perceptiva e, do estilo cognitivo na dimensão independência- -dependência do campo. A consistência interna do instrumento, sua validade estrutural e sua validade de construto são examinadas a partir dos dados co- letados em quatro diferentes estudos em que o teste foi aplicado (n = 6.530). Os resultados indicam altos níveis de consistência interna e níveis adequados de validade estrutural do instrumento. A validade de cons- truto é determinada examinando os comportamentos de teste em relação ao gênero e nível de escolaridade/ idade. Os resultados indicam que o instrumento se comporta conforme o esperado no construto. Por fim, são apresentadas as escalas do instrumento.

Acupuncture Combined with Auricular Acupoints Patches for Moderate to Severe Nicotine Dependence：a Randomized Controlled Study / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo compare the efficacy and safety of acupuncture combined with auricular acupoints patches and nicotine transdermal patch in treating moderate to severe nicotine dependence. MethodsIn a rando-mized controlled trial， 64 quit smoking voluntary subjects with moderate to severe nicotine dependence were randomly divided at a ratio of 1∶1 into a treatment group and a control group， with 32 cases in each group. The treatment group was given acupuncture combined with auricular acupoints patches， twice weekly， four weeks as a course for two courses. The control group was given nicotine transdermal patch， one patch per day for 24 hours， 8 weeks. The cure rate was assessed after treatment and at follow-up （the 16th week after treatment）.The daily smoking volume， exhaled carbon monoxide （CO） value， Nicotine Dependence Scale （FTND）， Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms Scale （MNWS）， and Pittsburgh Sleepiness Index Inventory （PSQI） were evaluated before and after treatment and at follow-up， and adverse effects were recorded. ResultsIn terms of the cure rate， there were both six cured cases （20%） after treatment and at follow-up in the treatment group， while in the control group， seven （23.3%） and five （16.7%） patients were cured after treatment and at follow-up， respectively， with no statistically significant differences between the two groups both after treatment and at follow-up （P＞0.05）. The daily smoking volume and exhaled CO value significantly decreased after treatment and at follow-up in both groups （P＜0.05）， but were not significantly different between the groups after treatment and at follow-up （P＞0.05）. After treatment and at follow-up， FTND， MNWS， and PSQI scores were significantly reduced in both groups compared with those before treatment （P＜0.05）. There was no statistically significant difference in the FTND scale scores between the two groups after treatment and at follow-up （P＞0.05）， while the MNWS and PSQI scale scores were lower in the treatment group than in the control group （P＜0.05）. ConclusionAcupuncture combined with auricular acupoint patches for moderate to severe nicotine dependence has comparable effect with the first-line drug nicotine patch in terms of increasing the cure rate and decreasing the degree of nicotine dependence， and is superior to nicotine patch in terms of relieving withdrawal symptoms and improving sleep， with stable long-term effect.

A study on the suitability of HD-V2 film in ultra-high dose-rate electron beam dosimetry / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

Objective:To evaluate the usability of Gafchromic HD-V2 film for dose dosimetry in the ultra-high dose-rate (UD) electron beam from a modified medical linac, and to investigate the response between the energy and dose-rate dependence to the film.Methods:The HD-V2 film was utilized to measure the average dose-rate of the UD electron beam. The measured result was compared with those by advanced Markus chamber and alanine pellets. And characteristics of the UD electron beam were also measured by HD-V2 film. Energy dependence of HD-V2 film at three beam energies (6 MV X-ray, 9 MeV and 16 MeV electron beam) was investigated by obtaining and comparing the calibration curves based on the clinical linear accelerator in the dose range of 10-300 Gy. The dose-rate dependence of HD-V2 film was also studied by varying the dose rate among 0.03 Gy/s, 0.06 Gy/s and 0.1 Gy/s, and range of 100-200 Gy/s.Results:The measured average maximum dose-rate of 9 MeV UD electron beam at source skin distance (SSD) 100 cm was approximately 121 Gy/s using HD-V2 film, consistent with the results by advanced Markus chamber and alanine pellets. The measured percentage depth dose (PDD) curve parameters of the UD electron beam were similar to the conventional 9 MeV beam. The off-axis dose distribution of the UD electron beam showed the highest central axis, and the dose was gradually decreased with the increase of off-axis distance. The energy dependence of HD-V2 film had no dependency of 6 MV and 9, 16 MeV while measuring the dose in the range from 20 to 300 Gy. The HD-V2 film had no significant dose-rate dependency at the dose rate of 0.03 Gy/s, 0.06 Gy/s and 0.1 Gy/s for the clinical linear accelerator. Likewise, there was also no dose-rate dependence in the range 100-200 Gy/s in the modified machine.Conclusion:HD-V2 film is suitable for measuring ultra-high dose rate electron beam, independent of energy and dose rate.

Activation of the complement C3/C3aR pathway in the prefrontal cortex mediates methamphetamine addiction in rats / 中国药理学与毒理学杂志

OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of the complement C3/C3aR signaling pathway in the prefrontal cortex and colon neuroglia cell interactions during meth-amphetamine(METH)addiction,to observe the effects of TLR4 inhibitors as well as complement C3 elimination on METH reward and relapse behavior,and to explore the neuroinflammatory mechanisms of complement C3 acti-vation in METH addiction.METHODS ①A 14 d and 28 d rat METH addiction model was established to observe the effects of TLR4 antagonist ibudilast 3 mg·kg-1 and 10 mg·kg-1 on self-administration,reward motivation,relapse,and natural reward behavior in METH-trained 14 d rats and the effects of 0.02 mg·kg-1 complement C3 antago-nist on self-administration behavior in METH-trained 28 d rats.② Differences in the expression of TLR4,NF-κB,GRP94,C3,cathepsin L,CD68,and GFAP in the pre-frontal cortex of each group were examined using West-ern blotting.③ In addition,the expression of ATF6 in the prefrontal cortex of each group and the effects on neuro-nal and microglia/macrophage INOS,CD206 GRP94,and complement C3/C3aR.RESULTS ① Endoplasmic reticulum stress occurred in neurons and microglia after METH exposure depending on GRP94 and unfolded pro-tein responses to the ATF6 pathway.In addition,it acti-vates the TLR4-NF-κB pathway.② Microglia with high complement C3/C3aR expression in the prefrontal cortex were recruited to synaptic pruning and phagocytic responses around neurons with high GRP94,comple-ment C3/C3aR expression and these effects were blocked by complement C3 antagonists.③ In the rec-tum,GRP94 functions as a molecular chaperone for com-plement C3 and cathepsin L.Crosstalk occurs between enteric neurons high in GRP94,complement C3,and macrophages high in C3aR,located in the submucosa,lamina propria,and muscular,respectively,and all of these effects are blocked by complement C3 antago-nists.④ Treatment with the TLR4 antagonist ibudilast inhibits self-administration,reward motivation,and cue-or METH-priming in METH-trained 14 d rats,but fails to affect natural reward behavior.Ibudilast treatment attenu-ates the TLR4-NF-κB inflammatory pathway and comple-ments C3/C3aR pathway in the prefrontal cortex.CON-CLUSION Activation of the complement C3/C3aR signal-ing pathway by TLR4-NF-κB inflammatory signaling in the prefrontal cortex mediates the METH addiction pro-cess,providing an experimental basis for the clinical treatment of METH addiction,and targeting TLR4/NF-κB inflammatory signaling and complement C3/C3aR may be a new way to intervene in METH addiction.

A cross-lag study on adolescents' physical exercise behavior, self-control and mobile phone dependence / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To explore the relationship among physical exercise, self-control, and mobile phone dependence in adolescents.Methods:The entire group of random sampling method was used to extract 882 students from five junior high schools in Nanchang city from September 2020 to March 2021.A longitudinal survey was conducted using the sports activity rating scale, self control scale, and adolescent mobile phone dependence scale on all participants for 2 times with an interval for 6 months.The questionnaire results in the first stage were marked as T1.The questionnaire results in the second stage were marked as T2.SPSS 26.0 statistical software was used to conduct reliability analysis, common method bias test and Pearson correlation analysis on each variable in sequence.AMOS 23.0 was used for cross-lag analysis to explore the relationship among physical exercise, self-control and mobile phone dependence.Results:The score of physical exercise of adolescents was (17.71±5.62), the score of self-control was (51.48±9.71), and the score of mobile phone dependencies was (56.67±12.93). Adolescent physical exercise, self-control, and mobile phone dependence were all related to stability across time.There were positive correlation between T1 physical exercise and T2 physical exercise ( r=0.489), T1 self-control and T2 self-control ( r=0.482), as well as T1 mobile phone dependencies and T2 mobile phone dependencies ( r=0.498)(all P<0.01). Cross-lag analysis showed that: adolescent physical exercise behavior could unidirectionally predict self-control( β=0.197, P<0.01)and mobile phone dependence( β=-0.224, P<0.01) after 6 months, and self-control could predict the mobile phone dependence( β=-0.560, P<0.01) of junior high school students after 6 months.The mediating effect results showed that self-control had a mediating effect between physical exercise and mobile phone dependence of junior high school students, there were gender differences.The mediating effect accounted for 22.22%(-0.018/-0.081). Conclusion:Physical exercise can indirectly reduce the mobile phone dependence of junior high school students by affecting self-control.

The mediating effect of loneliness between social support and mobile social media dependence / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To explore the mediating effect of loneliness between social support and mobile social media dependence.Methods:From May to June 2021, a survey was conducted on 559 college students selected from a cluster by mobile social media dependence questionnaire, multidimensional scale of perceived social support and loneliness scale.SPSS 21.0 statistical software and PROCESS v3.5 program were used to test the mediating effect.Results:The total score of college students' dependence on mobile social media was (3.27±0.56), the saliency score was (3.51±0.60), the social gain score was (3.02±0.69), the compulsive score was (3.33±0.74), the conflicting score was (3.35±0.68), and the withdrawal score was (3.13±0.72). The mediating effect test found that loneliness played a complete mediating effect between social support and mobile social media dependence.The Bootstrap 95% CI interval corrected for the deviation of the indirect effect was -0.176--0.090, which did not contain 0 value.Similarly, loneliness also played a complete mediating role between social support and social gain, compulsive, conflict and withdrawal. Conclusion:Social support can affect mobile social media dependence through loneliness.It is suggested to reduce excessive loneliness as much as possible by cultivating students' ability to establish and maintain social support system, so as to use mobile social media rationally.

Comparative analysis of clinical characteristics and short-term prognosis between type A and type B male patients with alcohol dependence / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To explore the differences in clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes between patients with type A and type B alcohol dependence, and to find the independent risk factors of relapse.Methods:Alcohol-dependent male patients attending the Addiction Medicine Center of Beijing Huilongguan Hospital from January 2018 to December 2020 were selected for the study and divided into type A alcohol-dependent group ( n=77) and type B alcohol-dependent group ( n=87). All patients were given acute detoxification treatment and were followed up after treatment on relapse to drinking. Differences in demographic and clinical data were compared between the two groups, and differences in treatment outcomes between the two groups at different time points over 3 months were compared. Patients were divided into relapse group and non-relapse group according to whether they drank again after 3 months. Logistic regression model was established to screen the risk factors of relapse of alcohol-dependent patients by SPSS 25.0 software. Results:There was no significant difference between the two types of patients in years of education, marital status, smoking status and working status(all P>0.05), but the proportion of co-residents( χ2=5.69, P=0.017) and the proportion of positive family history of alcoholism were significant difference between the two type of patients( χ2=13.32, P<0.001). There were statistically significant differences between the two types of patients in the onset time( t=-7.28, P<0.001), the first drinking age( t=-2.36, P=0.020), the proportion of drinking in the morning( χ2=7.83, P=0.005), psychotic symptoms( χ2=4.31, P=0.038), convulsions after withdrawal( χ2=5.30, P=0.021), and alcohol use disorder identification test(AUDIT) score( t=4.30, P<0.001). At the 4th and 8th weekend of the follow-up, there were statistically significant differences in drinking frequency(0(0, 3), 0(0, 0), Z=-4.13, P<0.001; 3(0, 3), 0(0, 3), Z=-4.42, P<0.001) and relapse rate (40(45.98%), 9(11.69%), χ2=22.92, P<0.001; 61(70.11%), 24(31.17%), χ2=24.82, P<0.001) between the two types of alcohol dependence patients after drinking again. After 12-week follow-up, there were statistically significant differences between the two types of alcohol-dependent patients in the interval of first drinking(20(7, 30)d, 88(38, 90)d, Z=-7.83, P<0.001), the cumulative duration of abstinence(4(0, 8)weeks, 12(4, 12)weeks, Z=-5.13, P<0.001), the cumulative rate of abstinence(71(81.60%), 25(32.47%), χ2=40.62, P<0.001), the frequency of drinking after abstinence(3(3, 3), 0(0, 3), Z=-5.54, P<0.001), and the reduction of daily average alcohol consumption( t=3.36, P<0.001). Logistic regression model showed that type B alcohol dependence ( OR=3.121, P=0.03, 95% CI: 1.12-8.72) and AUDIT score ( OR=1.498, P<0.01, 95% CI: 1.29-1.74) were the risk factors for relapse of alcohol-dependent patients. Conclusions:Patients with type A and type B alcohol dependence have obvious differences in clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes, and type B alcohol dependence is independent risk factor for relapse to drinking in alcohol-dependent patients, which validate the rationality and necessity of alcohol dependence subtypes.

Resting-state functional connectivity alterations of ventral tegmental area in adult male smokers: a functional magnetic resonance imaging study / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To investigate the alterations of resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) in ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra (SN) among male smokers, and its correlation with clinical characteristics of smoking.Methods:The resting-state functional magnetic resonance data of 131 subjects recruited from January 2014 to December 2018 were analyzed retrospectively, including 76 smokers (smoking group) and 55 non-smokers (control group). VTA/SN was selected as regions of interest (ROI), and then calculated RSFC between VTA/SN and the whole brain.Based on SPM12 software, independent sample t-test was conducted to compare the differences in RSFC between smoking group and control group.Based on SPSS 22.0 software, Pearson correlation analysis was used to investigate the relationships between the RSFC of brain regions with significant differences and Fagerstr?m test for nicotine dependence (FTND) score, pack-year of smokers. Results:Compared with control group, the results showed decreased RSFC between VTA and the brain regions related default mode network (DMN)(including posterior cingulate cortex, right anterior cuneiform lobe, bilateral superior temporal gyrus, right middle temporal gyrus and right inferior parietal lobule), and regions of limbic system(including right marginal lobe and right angular gyrus), right calcarine (MNI: x, y, z=24, -55, -14) and left insula(MNI: x, y, z=-35, -11, 9) in smoking group(GRF corrected, voxel level P<0.005, cluster level P<0.05). Taking SN as the seed, there was no significant difference between smoking group and control group ( P>0.05). RSFC of VTA-left superior temporal gyrus was positively correlated with pack-year( r=0.243, P=0.034) and FTND ( r=0.282, P=0.014). VTA-left insula RSFC was positively correlated with FTND ( r=0.316, P=0.006). Conclusion:The RSFC in the mesolimbic system and the VTA-DMN circuit exist abnormal changes in smokers.To some extent, it may explain the reward deficits and dysfunction of emotion regulation in smokers, which may provide clues for further understanding the mechanism of tobacco addiction.

Effects of educational level on the choice of intervention strategies for smoking cessation in patients with moderate to severe tobacco dependence / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the effects of educational level on smoking cessation in patients with moderate to severe tobacco dependence, explore effective individualized smoking cessation methods, and increase smoking cessation rate.Methods:A total of 480 patients with moderate to severe tobacco dependence who were willing to quit smoking and received treatment in the Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shengli Oilfield Central Hospital from January to December 2020 were included in this study. They were divided into four groups ( n = 120/group) according to their educational level: group A (elementary school and below), group B (junior high school and senior high school), group C (technical secondary school or college), and group D (university and above). All patients were randomly assigned to undergo "5A" intervention alone or "5A" intervention combined with varenicline intervention (combined intervention). Patients' awareness of the health risks of tobacco smoking was compared among the four groups. The smoking cessation rate measured at different time points was compared between different intervention strategies. Results:The scores of health risk of tobacco smoking in groups D, C, B, and A were (806.5 ± 35.7) points, (710.8 ± 26.2) points, (643.6 ± 43.4) points, and (512.4 ± 30.1) points, respectively. Patients with high education levels had high awareness of the health risk of tobacco smoking ( F = 1 543.26, P < 0.001). At 1, 3, and 6 months, the smoking cessation rate of combined intervention was higher than that of "5A" intervention alone in each group (group A: χ2 = 3.85, 4.23, 4.10, group B: χ2 = 4.30, 4.09, 4.60, group C: χ2 = 6.81, 4.30, 4.03, group D: χ2 = 6.71, 6.51, 4.73, all P < 0.05). The smoking cessation rate after 6 months of "5A" intervention alone or combined intervention in group D was 60.0% and 78.3% respectively, which were significantly higher than 41.7% and 60.0% in group C, 23.3% and 41.7% in group B, and 20.0% and 36.7% in group A ( χ2 = 26.59, 26.12, both P < 0.001). At different time points, the smoking cessation rates of the "5A" intervention alone in group D were significantly higher than those of combined intervention in groups A and B ( χ2 = 9.25, 25.04, 7.29, all P < 0.05). Conclusion:Awareness of the health risks of tobacco smoking is related to a patient's educational level, and affects smoking cessation. Individualized smoking cessation interventions based on a patient's educational level can increase the rate of smoking cessation.

Advances in screen dependence disorder in preschool children / 国际儿科学杂志

The adverse effects of prolonged screen exposure on infants, children, and adolescents have been confirmed by a growing number of studies.Without early detection and intervention, these adverse effects may persist throughout a child′s growth and development.The period of preschool is a critical time for children′s neurological development and the adverse neurological damage caused by heavy screen exposure during this period should be taken seriously.This paper introduces the current situation of children′s electronic screen use in China and abroad, the definition of screen dependency disorders, focuses on the specific effects of prolonged screen dependency on the neurological development of preschool children and its possible mechanisms, and discusses early intervention measures with evidence-based medicine, aiming to provide a reference for the scientific use of electronic screens in preschool children.

Efficacy and safety of low-dose rituximab in treatment of pediatric nephrotic syndrome: a prospective randomized controlled trial / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To study the efficacy and safety of repeated application of rituximab (RTX) at a low dose (200 mg/m2) versus the recommended dose (375 mg/m2) for remission maintenance in frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome (FRNS) or steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS).@*METHODS@#A randomized controlled trial was conducted for 29 children with FRNS/SDNS who received systemic treatment in the Department of Nephrology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, from September 2020 to December 2021. These children were divided into a recommended dose group (n=14) and a low dose group (n=15) using a random number table. The two groups were compared in terms of general characteristics, changes in CD19 expression after RTX treatment, number of relapses, glucocorticoid dose, adverse reactions of RTX, and hospital costs.@*RESULTS@#After RTX treatment, both the low dose group and the recommended dose group achieved B-lymphocyte depletion and had significant reductions in the number of relapses and glucocorticoid dose (P<0.05). The low dose group had a comparable clinical effect to the recommended dose group after RTX treatment (P>0.05), and the low dose group had a significant reduction in hospital costs for the second, third, and fourth times of hospitalization (P<0.05). There were no serious adverse reactions in either group during RTX treatment and late follow-up, and there was no significant difference in adverse reactions between the two groups (P>0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Repeated RTX treatment at a low dose has comparable clinical efficacy and safety to that at the recommended dose and can significantly reduce the number of FRNS/SDNS relapses and the amount of glucocorticoids used, with little adverse effect throughout the treatment cycle. Therefore, it holds promise for clinical application.

Genetic variability in the neurobiology of nicotine dependence: effects on smoking behavior / A variabilidade genética na neurobiologia da adição à nicotina: reflexos no comportamento tabágico

Abstract Background Smoking dependence is a chronic disease and a public health problem. The neurobiology of nicotine addiction can explain smoking behavior. This system has genetic variability that has been associated with vulnerability to dependence. Genetic variability in the neurobiology of smoking can help to understand why individuals exposed to drugs may or may not become addicted. Objective This study aims to address genetic variability in the neurobiology of smoking addiction with a focus on polymorphic genes related to the nicotinic response and the dopaminergic reward pathway. Method This work involved a search of the main scientific research on genetic variability in the neurobiology of smoking and its effects on smoking behavior. One hundred and five studies were selected, most of which highlighted polymorphisms in the genes of nicotinic receptors, dopamine receptors, and nicotine metabolism. Results The majority of studies have focused on genes related to the activation of the dopaminergic reward system by nicotine. Combinations between different polymorphisms were also highlighted, showing that interactions can determine a genetic profile of predisposition to smoking addiction. Additionally, gender and ethnicity were identified as relevant factors. Conclusion Knowledge of the genetic bases involved in the individual response to smoking can enable a better understanding of inter-individual differences in smoking behavior, and contribute to improving the treatment of addiction.

Resumo Introdução A dependência nicotínica é uma doença crônica e um problema de saúde pública. O comportamento tabágico pode ser explicado pela neurobiologia da adição, cujas variações genéticas têm sido associadas à dependência. A variabilidade genética na neurobiologia do tabagismo pode ajudar a entender por que indivíduos expostos a drogas podem ou não se tornar viciados. Objetivo Este estudo tem como objetivo abordar a variabilidade genética na neurobiologia do tabagismo com foco em genes polimórficos relacionados à resposta nicotínica e à via de recompensa dopaminérgica. Método Uma pesquisa foi realizada nas principais bases de dados científicos sobre a variabilidade genética na neurobiologia do tabagismo e seus efeitos no comportamento do tabagismo. 105 estudos foram selecionados, em sua maioria destacando polimorfismos nos genes de receptores nicotínicos, receptores de dopamina e de metabolismo da nicotina. Resultados A maioria dos estudos concentrou-se em genes relacionados à ativação do sistema de recompensa dopaminérgico pela nicotina. Determinadas combinações entre genótipos de diferentes polimorfismos também se destacaram, mostrando que interações gênicas podem determinar um perfil genético de predisposição ao tabagismo. Além disso, gênero e etnia foram identificados como fatores relevantes. Conclusão O conhecimento das bases genéticas envolvidas na resposta individual ao tabagismo pode permitir uma melhor compreensão das diferenças interindividuais no comportamento tabágico e contribuir para melhoria dos tratamentos disponíveis para a dependência.

Associação dos parâmetros clínicos de sarcopenia e comprometimento cognitivo em pessoas idosas: estudo transversal / Association of clinical parameters of sarcopenia and cognitive impairment in older people: cross-sectional study

Resumo Objetivo Associar os parâmetros clínicos de sarcopenia com o comprometimento cognitivo em pessoas idosas. Método Estudo transversal, com 263 idosos (≥60 anos) usuários de um serviço público de atenção especializada. Variáveis sociodemográficas e clínicas caracterizaram a amostra e os parâmetros clínicos de sarcopenia (força, massa muscular e desempenho físico) foram avaliados, respectivamente, por meio da Força de Preensão Palmar (FPP), circunferência da panturrilha (CP) e o Teste Timed Up and Go (TUG). Utilizou-se o Miniexame do Estado Mental (MEEM) para avaliar o estado cognitivo. As associações foram investigadas por regressões lineares e logísticas simples e múltiplas considerando os parâmetros clínicos de sarcopenia (variáveis independentes) e o estado cognitivo (variável dependente), ajustadas para idade, sexo, anos de estudo, número de medicação, estado nutricional e capacidade funcional. Resultados Dos participantes com comprometimento cognitivo, 59,6% apresentaram baixa força muscular. O Conclusão A baixa força muscular foi o parâmetro de sarcopenia independentemente associado ao comprometimento cognitivo. Essa informação é útil para atentar-se para a probabilidade de comprometimento cognitivo quando identificada baixa força muscular em pessoas idosas.

Abstract Objective To associate clinical parameters of sarcopenia with cognitive impairment in older people. Method Cross-sectional study with 263 older adults (≥60 years) treated at a specialized public health facility. Sociodemographic and clinical variables were used to characterize the sample and the clinical parameters of sarcopenia (muscle strength, muscle mass and physical performance) were assessed based on handgrip strength (HGS), calf circumference (CC) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to evaluate cognitive status. Associations were analyzed by simple and multiple linear and logistic regression considering the clinical parameters of sarcopenia (independent variables) and cognitive status (dependent variable), adjusted for age, sex, years of schooling, number of medications, nutritional status and functional capacity. Results Of participants with cognitive impairment, 59.6% exhibited low muscle strength. Conclusion Low muscle strength was the sarcopenia parameter independently associated with cognitive impairment. This information is useful in highlighting the likelihood of cognitive impairment when poor muscle strength is identified in older people.

Formação do salário mínimo e os mínimos sociais necessários: sobre os direitos sociais e os impactos no 'Brasil de Bolsonaro' / Formation of the minimum wage and the necessary social minimums: on social rights and the impacts in 'Bolsonaro's Brazil'

Vislumbramos contribuir para o debate sobre os mínimos sociais e necessidades humanas no Brasil atual, onde o primeiro decreto do governo Bolsonaro resolveu sobre o Salário Mínimo. Fundamenta este artigo a Teoria Marxista da Dependência com a categoria superexploração, bem como as categorias mínimos sociais e necessidades humanas. O acirramento da precarização da vida e do trabalho, aliada a retirada de direitos, conformam um contexto que faz ampliar as expressões da questão social. Nesse interim, fica a reflexão sobre a atuação profissional, a fim de conjugar forças e resistências para o enfrentamento ao avanço do capital sobre as vidas humanas e da natureza

We aim to contribute to the debate on social minimums and human needs in present-day Brazil, where the initial decree of the Bolsonaro government addressed the Minimum Wage. This article is grounded in the Marxist Theory of Dependence, utilizing the concept of superexploitation, along with the categories of social minimums and human needs. The exacerbation of life and labor precarity, coupled with the erosion of rights, shapes a context that further magnifies the expressions of the social question. In the midst of this, there lies a reflection on professional engagement, with the goal of uniting forces and resistance to confront the encroachment of capital upon human lives and nature

Evaluación del nivel de independencia para la realización de actividades instrumentales de la vida diaria en una comunidad de personas vulnerables / Avaliação do nível de independência nas atividades instrumentais de vida diária numa comunidade em vulnerabilidade / Evaluation of the level of independence for the performance of instrumental activities of daily living in a community of vulnerable people

Resumen Introducción Los cambios o deficiencias estructurales y/o funcionales que presentan las personas con discapacidad pueden limitar o comprometer su interacción, para la realización o el cumplimiento de actividades personales o sociales, convirtiéndolas entonces en personas vulnerables. Para la evaluación, el terapeuta ocupacional debe valorar varios factores que pueden ser considerados como riesgo de mayor vulnerabilidad como: edad, género, nivel educacional, condiciones económicas, ocupación, condición física o mental y presencia de comorbilidades entre otras. Objetivo Evaluar nivel de independencia para la realización de actividades instrumentales de la vida diaria (AIVD) en individuos pertenecientes a una comunidad de personas vulnerables. Método Se aplicó el Índice de Lawton y Brody en adultos y adultos mayores, que tenían o referían algún tipo de discapacidad, recolectando además una serie de datos que fueron procesados y analizados en la plantilla de cálculo en Microsoft Excel 2020®. Resultados El 74,2% mostró un elevado nivel de dependencia para desarrollar las AIVD, con predominio en adultos. El 70,7% poseían carné o certificado de discapacidad, con una correlación negativa moderada entre el porcentaje de gravedad y el nivel de independencia. La artritis reumatoidea fue la enfermedad que con mayor frecuencia estuvo vinculada a la perdida de la independencia. Conclusión Resulta posible detectar tempranamente el nivel de dependencia y la presencia de discapacidad, mediante la aplicación del Índice de Lawton y Brody, determinando limitaciones funcionales para realizar AIVD en una comunidad de personas vulnerables.

Resumo Introdução As mudanças estruturais e/ou funcionais que as pessoas com deficiências apresentam podem limitar ou comprometer sua interação para o desempenho ou realização de atividades pessoais ou sociais, tornando-as assim vulneráveis. Para avaliação, o terapeuta ocupacional deve avaliar vários fatores que podem ser considerados como um risco de maior vulnerabilidade, tais como: idade, sexo, nível educacional, condições econômicas, ocupação, condição física ou mental e presença de comorbidades, entre outros. Objetivo Avaliar o nível de independência na realização de atividades instrumentais de vida diária (IADLs) em indivíduos pertencentes a uma comunidade de pessoas vulneráveis. Método O Lawton e Brody Index foi aplicado a adultos e pessoas mais velhas que tinham ou relataram algum tipo de deficiência, coletando uma série de dados que foram processados e analisados no modelo de cálculo Microsoft Excel 2020®. Resultados 74,2% mostraram um alto nível de dependência para realizar IADLs, com predomínio de adultos. 70,7% tinham um cartão ou certificado de deficiência, com uma correlação negativa moderada entre a porcentagem de gravidade e o nível de independência. A artrite reumatoide foi a doença mais frequentemente ligada à perda de independência. Conclusão É possível detectar precocemente o nível de dependência e a presença de deficiência, aplicando o Lawton e Brody Index, determinando limitações funcionais para realizar IADLs em uma comunidade de pessoas vulneráveis.

Abstract Introduction The structural and/or functional changes or impairments presented by people with disabilities can limit or compromise their interaction, for the performance or fulfillment of personal or social activities, making them then vulnerable people. For evaluation, the occupational therapist must assess several factors that can be considered as a risk of increased vulnerability such as: age, gender, educational level, economic conditions, occupation, physical or mental condition, and presence of comorbidities among others. Objective To evaluate the level of independence in the performance of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) in individuals belonging to a community of vulnerable people. Method The Lawton and Brody Index was applied to adults and older adults who had or reported some type of disability, collecting a series of data that were processed and analyzed in the Microsoft Excel 2020® calculation template. Results 74.2% showed a high level of dependence to develop IADLs, with a predominance in adults. 70.7% had a disability card or certificate, with a moderate negative correlation between the percentage of severity and the level of independence. Rheumatoid arthritis was the disease most frequently associated with loss of independence. Conclusion It is possible to detect early the level of dependence and the presence of disability, through the application of the Lawton and Brody Index, determining functional limitations to perform IADLs in a community of vulnerable people.

Population size regulation is density-dependent in Rhodnius prolixus (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) through an irritability mechanism

BACKGROUND Physical factors can determine the level of triatomine abundance, but do not regulate their population densities, and neither do natural enemies. OBJECTIVES To identify the processes associated with density-dependent triatomine population regulation. METHODS We set-up a laboratory experiment with four interconnected boxes; the central box harbored Rhodnius prolixus bugs and one hamster. Stage 5 and adult densities of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 60 bugs per hamster, were replicated four times (except the density of 60 bugs). Hamster's irritability and several triatomine responses were measured: feeding, development time and longevity, mortality, fecundity, dispersal, and the net reproductive value (R o ). FINDINGS Density had a statistically significant effect on irritability, but not on the percent of bugs feeding. Density was significant on blood meal size ingested in bugs that did not move between boxes, but not significant when the bugs moved. Density and irritability affected the proportion of stage 5 nymphs molting, and the proportion of adult bugs dying per day and over a three-week period. There was a highly significant effect of density and irritability on R o . MAIN CONCLUSIONS We showed that a density-dependent mechanism, acting through the irritability of the host, seems the most plausible process regulating populations in triatomines.

Smoking among Brazilian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: The social distancing measures during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in mental suffering among adolescents, leading to risky consumption of psychoactive substances such as tobacco. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the factors associated with tobacco use among adolescents during the COVID-19 social distancing period in Brazil. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study used data from ConVid Adolescentes survey in Brazil. METHODS: Tobacco use was assessed before and during social distancing. The explanatory variables investigated were sex, age, race/skin color, type of school, maternal education, region of residence, adherence to social restriction measures, number of close friends, sleep quality during the pandemic, mood, passive smoking, use of alcoholic beverages during the pandemic, sedentary behavior, and physical activity. A logistic regression model was used for the data analysis. RESULTS: Tobacco use by adolescents did not change during the pandemic (from 2.58% to 2.41%). There was a higher chance of tobacco use among adolescents aged between 16 and 17 years, self-reported black ones, residing in the South and Southeast regions, reported feeling sad and loneliness, had sleeping problems that worsened, were using alcoholic beverages during the pandemic, and were passive smokers at home. Adolescents whose mothers had completed high school or higher, had strict social restrictions, and increased their physical activity during the pandemic had a lower chance of tobacco use. CONCLUSION: Tobacco uses during the COVID-19 pandemic was higher in vulnerable groups, such as black adolescents and those with mental suffering.