Variability in life expectancy among people with HIV in Brazil by gender and sexual orientation

Abstract Introduction In Brazil, though Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is available to all, the benefits may not be experienced uniformly. We projected Life Expectancy (LE) for People Living with HIV (PLHIV) in care as currently observed and estimated the impact of guideline-concordant care. Methods Using a microsimulation model, we projected LE for a cohort of PLHIV and for four population groups: cisgender Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), cisgender Men who have Sex with Women (MSW), Cisgender Women (CGW), and Transgender Women (TGW). Cohort data from Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (INI/Fiocruz) informed model parameters. We modeled five scenarios: 1) Current care: ART initiation, adherence, and retention in care as currently observed, 2) Guideline-concordant care: immediate ART initiation, full adherence to treatment, and consistent retention in care, 3) Immediate ART initiation with observed adherence to treatment and retention in care, 4) Full adherence to treatment with observed timing of ART initiation and retention in care, and 5) Consistent retention in care with observed timing of ART initiation and adherence. Results With current care, LE from age 15 would be 45.9, 44.4, 54.2, and 42.3 years, for MSM, MSW, CGW, and TGW. With guideline-concordant care, LE would be 54.2, 54.4, 63.1, and 53.2 years, for MSM, MSW, CGW and TGW, with TGW experiencing the greatest potential increase in LE (10.9 years). When investigating the components of care separately, MSW and CGW would gain most LE with immediate ART initiation, whereas for MSM and TGW consistent retention in care would be most impactful. Conclusions In settings like INI/Fiocruz, MSW and CGW would benefit most from interventions focused on earlier diagnosis and linkage to care, whereas TGW and MSM would benefit from interventions to sustain engagement in care. Assessment of the HIV care continuum for specific populations should inform care priorities.

Relação entre fatores socioeconômicos e a pandemia da covid-19 / Correlation between socioeconomic factors and the COVID-19 pandemic

Resumo Este artigo objetivou verificar a relação entre os fatores socioeconômicos e a pandemia da covid-19 nos municípios de médio porte mineiros. O procedimento de análise de dados foi a modelagem de equações estruturais de mínimos quadrados parciais. As variáveis utilizadas foram vulnerabilidade, saneamento, renda, agravantes, vacinação, casos de covid-19, mortalidade por covid-19, hospitalização e doenças crônicas não transmissíveis. Os dados foram coletados no Índice Mineiro de Responsabilidade Social, no painel de monitoramento dos casos de covid-19 e no painel de monitoramento de vacinação contra covid-19. O recorte temporal foi determinado pelo início da pandemia e a disponibilidade de dados (março de 2020 a setembro de 2021). Os resultados evidenciaram que melhores condições de saneamento estão negativamente relacionadas aos casos de covid-19, a renda está positivamente relacionada com os casos de covid-19 e a taxa de mortalidade por doenças crônicas não transmissíveis está relacionada de forma positiva com a mortalidade por covid-19. Os casos de covid-19 têm impacto negativo na hospitalização e a hospitalização tem impacto positivo na mortalidade. Os casos moderados pela vacinação estão negativamente relacionados à mortalidade por covid-19. Os resultados confirmam que condições socioeconômicas menos favoráveis tornam a sociedade mais vulnerável a covid-19.

Abstract This study investigated the correlation between socioeconomic factors and the COVID-19 pandemic in medium-sized Minas Gerais municipalities. Data were analyzed by partial least squares structural equation modeling, using the following variables: vulnerability, sanitation, income, aggravating factors, vaccination, COVID-19 cases, COVID-19 mortality, hospitalization and non-communicable chronic diseases. Data were obtained from the Minas Gerais Social Responsibility Index, the COVID-19 cases monitoring panel and the COVID-19 vaccination monitoring panel. Data collection time frame was determined by the onset of the pandemic and data availability (March 2020 to September 2021). Results showed that better sanitation conditions are negatively related to COVID-19 cases, income is positively related to COVID-19 cases, and higher mortality from chronic noncommunicable diseases are positively related to COVID-19 mortality. COVID-19 cases have a negative impact on hospitalization and hospitalization has a positive impact on mortality. Cases, moderated by vaccination, are negatively related to COVID-19 mortality. These findings confirm that less favorable socioeconomic conditions make society more vulnerable to COVID-19.

Application status and development trend of virtual clinical trials / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#Virtual clinical trials are clinical trials conducted through computer simulation technology, which breaks through the limitations of traditional clinical trials and has the advantages of saving time, reducing costs, and reducing the risk of human trials. With the application of new computer technologies such as population pharmacokinetics, physiologically-based pharmacokinetics, quantitative systems pharmacology, and artificial intelligence, the field of virtual clinical trials in healthcare has become an important development direction. This article will give a preliminary review of the connotation, methods and future development trends of virtual clinical trials, aiming to provide reference for the application of new technologies and methods in clinical trials.

Revisión histórica, distribución potencial y estado de conservación de la rata endémica de México Xenomys nelsoni (Rodentia: Cricetidae) / Historical review, potential distribution, and conservation of the Mexican endemic rat Xenomys nelsoni (Rodentia: Cricetidae)

Resumen Introducción: La Rata de Magdalena, Xenomys nelsoni, es un roedor endémico de México, de distribución restringida a las selvas bajas caducifolias densas, en una pequeña región de la costa del Pacífico mexicano. Es una especie poco conocida, catalogada como "En Peligro" de acuerdo con la Unión Internacional para la Conservación de la Naturaleza (IUCN). Este desconocimiento unido a la alta tasa de deforestación de su hábitat hace que su conservación sea prioritaria. Objetivo: Realizar un recuento histórico de los registros depositados en las colecciones científicas, generar mapas de distribución potencial y analizar el estado de conservación de la especie. Método: Los datos de ocurrencia de las especies se obtuvieron de la literatura y bases de datos digitales y se analizaron por décadas. Se utilizaron los programas GARP y MaxEnt para generar los modelos de nicho ecológico. La importancia de las variables en el modelo se estimó mediante un análisis Jackknife. Resultados: A lo largo de 129 años 19 recolectores registraron 69 ejemplares, de los cuales 65 están depositados en siete colecciones internacionales y una nacional. Aunque la especie sólo se ha recolectado en Jalisco y Colima, la distribución potencial de X. nelsoni incluye también el estado de Michoacán. De esta área estimada, sólo el 1.5 % se encuentra dentro de un Área Natural Protegida. Conclusiones: Los resultados de la distribución potencial podrían ser utilizados para verificar la presencia de la especie en lugares donde no ha sido recolectada como el norte de la Reserva de la Biosfera Chamela-Cuixmala y en algunas zonas de la provincia fisiográfica Costas del Sur en el estado de Michoacán. Es necesario incrementar los muestreos en regiones poco estudiadas predichas por el modelo y aumentar el área de protección.

Abstract Introduction: The Magdalena Rat, Xenomys nelsoni, is a rodent endemic to Mexico, whose distribution is restricted to dense tropical dry forests in a small region on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is a poorly known species categorized as "Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This lack of knowledge and the high rates of deforestation of its habitat makes its conservation a priority. Objective: To summarize the historical records deposited in scientific collections, to create potential distribution maps, and to analyze the conservation status of the species. Methods: We obtained species occurrence data from literature and digital databases, analyzing them by the decade. We used GARP and MaxEnt software to generate the ecological niche models. The importance of the variables in the model was estimated using the Jackknife technique. Results: Over 129 years, 19 collectors registered 69 specimens, of which 65 are deposited in one national and seven international collections. Although the species has only been collected in Jalisco and Colima, the potential distribution for X. nelsoni also includes the state of Michoacán. Of this estimated area, only 1.5 % is in a Protected Natural Area. Conclusions: The results of the potential distribution could be used to verify the presence of the species in places where it has not been collected, such as the northern part of the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve and in some areas of the physiographic province Costas del Sur in the state of Michoacán. It is needed to increase samplings in the least studied regions predicted by the model and expand the area of protection.

Marco legal para la prevención de procedimientos estéticos con sustancias modelantes / Legal framework for preventing aesthetic procedures with modeling substances i:en

En la actualidad, la alogenosis iatrogénica es una condición reconocida en todo el orbe, especialmente en Latinoamérica, donde es evidente la ausencia de control en la administración de sustancias no reguladas con fines estéticos, lo que ha devenido un problema emergente por la magnitud de las complicaciones, ya que algunos productos, como aceites minerales, hidrocarburos, silicona industrial, generan graves consecuencias, tanto locales como sistémicas, en el organismo. Muchos países aún no han regulado la prohibición de esta práctica, aunque cada día son más las campañas para prevenirla; sin embargo, al mismo tiempo aumenta la incidencia de la enfermedad en todo el mundo por el incremento de estos procedimientos estéticos. Al respecto, en Cuba, el creciente número de afectados por esta causa evidencia vulnerabilidad en el cumplimiento de lo establecido hasta la fecha, por lo que se impone instaurar un marco legal de estricto cumplimiento que regule la inyección de sustancias modelantes con fines estéticos.

Currently, iatrogenic allogenosis is a condition recognized throughout the world, especially in Latin America, where the absence of control in the administration of unregulated substances for aesthetic purposes is evident, which has become an emerging problem due to the magnitude of complications, since some products, such as mineral oils, hydrocarbons, industrial silicone, generate serious consequences, both local and systemic, in the body. Many countries have not yet regulated the prohibition of this practice, although every day there are more campaigns to prevent it. However, at the same time the incidence of the disease increases worldwide due to the increase in these aesthetic procedures. In this regard, in Cuba, the growing number of people affected by this cause shows vulnerability in compliance with what has been established to date, that is why it is necessary to establish a legal framework of strict compliance that regulates the injection of modeling substances for aesthetic purposes.

An electric field modeling study with meta-analysis to understand the antidepressant effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)

Objective: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has mixed effects for major depressive disorder (MDD) symptoms, partially owing to large inter-experimental variability in tDCS protocols and their correlated induced electric fields (E-fields). We investigated whether the E-field strength of distinct tDCS parameters was associated with antidepressant effect. Methods: A meta-analysis was performed with placebo-controlled clinical trials of tDCS enrolling MDD patients. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 10, 2023. Effect sizes of tDCS protocols were correlated with E-field simulations (SimNIBS) of brain regions of interest (bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [DLPFC] and bilateral subgenual anterior cingulate cortex [sgACC]). Moderators of tDCS responses were also investigated. Results: A total of 20 studies were included (21 datasets, 1,008 patients), using 11 distinct tDCS protocols. Results revealed a moderate effect for MDD (g = 0.41, 95%CI 0.18-0.64), while cathode position and treatment strategy were found to be moderators of response. A negative association between effect size and tDCS-induced E-field magnitude was seen, with stronger E-fields in the right frontal and medial parts of the DLPFC (targeted by the cathode) leading to smaller effects. No association was found for the left DLPFC and the bilateral sgACC. An optimized tDCS protocol is proposed. Conclusions: Our results highlight the need for a standardized tDCS protocol in MDD clinical trials. Registration number: PROSPERO CRD42022296246.

Ergonomia en actividades académicas desde casa

Introducción: A consecuencia de la emergencia sanitaria por el virus SARS-CoV2, las actividades académicas migraron de forma repentina a un entorno de trabajo remoto; esto provocó que los hogares de todo el mundo se convirtieran en el asentamiento urgente de las estaciones de trabajo académico. La ergonomia como disciplina científica cobra relevancia al ser un aliado subsanador para mitigar los riesgos asociados con la aparición de lesiones musculoesqueléticas. De acuerdo con la memoria estadística del Instituto Mexicano de Seguridad Social, IMSS1, en el primer año de pandemia de COVID-19 se registraron 30 860 atenciones por lesiones en la región de manos y muñecas, 9696 en la zona de cabeza y cuello, 6251 dorsopatías y 1673 atenciones por astenopia a jóvenes de entre 18 a 29 años que desarrollaban actividades escolares. Objetivo: En este sentido, se aborda la presente investigación para conocer la composición de los espacios de trabajo académico en casa y analizar si existen factores o elementos que incidan en el riesgo de lesiones musculoesqueléticas en los estudiantes del nivel superior. Metodología: A través de un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales que cuenta con el constructo latente de las posibles lesiones (PL) en manos, espalda, piernas, cabeza, vista, oído, agotamiento físico y la respiración, las variables observables se atribuyen a los espacios utilizados para las actividades académicas en casa, muebles y equipos, Condiciones y Medio Ambiente (CyMAT). Resultados y discusión: Se encontró que un mal diseño de la estación de trabajo académico en casa, aunado a la utilización inadecuada de los muebles y equipos, aumenta la posibilidad de presentar síntomas asociados con las LMEs y, por tanto, daños en la salud del estudiante. Conclusión: La mediación de las estaciones de trabajo a través de la implementación de elementos ergonómicos mejora de forma sustancial la calidad de trabajo académico en casa, y hace evidente la importancia de la ergonomía como disciplina científica.

Introduction: As a result of the health emergency of the SARS-CoV2 virus, academic activities suddenly migrated to a remote work environment, causing homes around the world to become the urgent settlement of academic workstations. Ergonomics as a scientific discipline becomes relevant as it is a healing ally to mitigate the risks associated with the appearance of musculoskeletal injuries. According to the statistical report of the Mexican Institute of Social Security, IMSS1, in the first year of the COVID 19 pandemic, 30,860 care for injuries in the hands and wrists region, 9,696 in the head and neck area, 6,251 dorsopathies and 1,673 care for asthenopia were registered to young people between 18 and 29 years old who develop school activities. Objective: In this sense, this research is addressed to know the composition of academic workspaces at home and analyze if some factors or elements affect the risk of musculoskeletal injuries in students of the higher level. Methodology: Through a structural equations model that has the latent construct of possible injuries (PL) in the hands, back, legs, head, eyesight, hearing, physical exhaustion, and breathing; the observable variables are attributed to the spaces used for academic activities at home, furniture and equipment, conditions and environment (CyMAT) Results and discussion: It is explored that a bad design of the academic workstation at home coupled with the inappropriate use of furniture and equipment increases the possibility of presenting symptoms associated with SCI and therefore, damage to the student's health. Conclusion: The mediation of workstations through the implementation of ergonomic elements substantially improves the quality of academic work at home, making evident the importance of ergonomics as a scientific discipline

Nonparametric item response models: a comparison on recovering true scores / Modelos de resposta ao item não-paramétricos: comparando a recuperação de escores verdadeiros / Modelos de respuesta al item no-paramétricos: comparando la recuperación de puntuaciones verdaderas

Nonparametric procedures are used to add flexibility to models. Three nonparametric item response models have been proposed, but not directly compared: the Kernel smoothing (KS-IRT); the Davidian-Curve (DC-IRT); and the Bayesian semiparametric Rasch model (SP-Rasch). The main aim of the present study is to compare the performance of these procedures in recovering simulated true scores, using sum scores as benchmarks. The secondary aim is to compare their performances in terms of practical equivalence with real data. Overall, the results show that, apart from the DC-IRT, which is the model that performs the worse, all the other models give results quite similar to those when sum scores are used. These results are followed by a discussion with practical implications and recommendations for future studies.(AU)

Procedimentos não paramétricos são usados para adicionar flexibilidade aos modelos. Três modelos não paramétricos de resposta ao item foram propostos, mas não comparados diretamente: o Kernel smoothing (KS-IRT); a Curva Davidiana (DC-IRT); e o modelo semiparamétrico Rasch Bayesiano (SP-Rasch). O objetivo principal do presente estudo é comparar o desempenho desses procedimentos na recuperação de escores verdadeiros simulados, utilizando escores de soma como benchmarks. O objetivo secundário é comparar seus desempenhos em termos de equivalência prática com dados reais. De forma geral, os resultados mostram que, além do DC-IRT, que é o modelo que apresenta o pior desempenho, todos os outros modelos apresentam resultados bastante semelhantes aos de quando se usam somatórios. Esses resultados são seguidos de uma discussão com implicações práticas e recomendações para estudos futuros.(AU)

Se utilizan procedimientos no paramétricos para agregar flexibilidad a los modelos. Se propusieron tres modelos de respuesta al ítem no paramétricos, pero no se compararon directamente: Kernel smoothing (KS-IRT); la curva davidiana (DC-IRT); y el modelo bayesiano de Rasch semiparamétrico (SP-Rasch). El objetivo principal del presente estudio es comparar el desempeño de estos procedimientos en la recuperación de puntajes verdaderos simulados, utilizando puntajes de suma como puntos de referencia. El objetivo secundario es comparar su desempeño en términos de equivalencia práctica con datos reales. En general, los resultados muestran que, a excepción de DC-IRT, que es el modelo con peor desempeño, todos los otros modelos presentan resultados bastante similares a los obtenidos cuando se utilizan sumatorios. Estos resultados son seguidos por una discusión con implicaciones prácticas y recomendaciones para estudios futuros.(AU)

A STUDY ON FINANCIAL MODELING USING 3 STATEMENT MODEL AND DCF VALUATION: AN INSIGHT FOR NEW ENTREPRENEURS

Financial statements reect the position of a company in respect of its wealth and protability in its short- term and long-term existence. The company's result in terms of protability is reected in the Prot and Loss statement for a nancial year. The Long term nancial health of the company in terms of its wealth creation will be reected in its Financial Position Statement, termed as a Balance sheet reecting its assets and liability position throughout its existence. Various nancial modelling techniques are used to predict the future of a company. The 3-statement model predicts the company's nancial strength for the future regarding the Balance sheet, prot and Loss Account and Cash ow statement. The study aims to predict the nancial statements for a future period of 5 years based on the company's past performance. The study was based on the nancial performance of Siemens AG for the past ve years, and it attempts to predict the future 5 years of the company under study.

Modelado matemático del efecto de las medidas de cuidado por COVID-19 sobre otras enfermedades respiratorias / Mathematical modelling of the impact of COVID-19 care measures on other respiratory diseases

RESUMEN INTRODUCCIÓN Los modelos matemáticos de la transmisión de enfermedades infecciosas permiten estudiar distintos mecanismos que afectan su comportamiento temporal. Este trabajo analizó el efecto sobre la dinámica de la influenza y el virus sincitial respiratorio (VSR) de la disminución de la transmisibilidad debida a las medidas de cuidado adoptadas para reducir la circulación de COVID-19. MÉTODOS Se empleó un modelo determinista tipo SIRS (susceptible-infectado-recuperado-susceptible) con modulación estacional para representar la influenza y el VSR, en ambos casos con inmunidad de corta duración y ciclo anual. Los cambios en la transmisibilidad de la enfermedad se modelaron reduciéndola durante dos años y planteando distintos escenarios. RESULTADOS En el modelo planteado, la reducción en la transmisibilidad genera cambios que se sostienen en los años siguientes: eventos epidémicos muy pronunciados con alargamiento del intervalo interbrote. Este efecto resulta dominante respecto del comportamiento estacional. El escenario de una reducción inicial de la transmisibilidad del 40% resulta compatible con el comportamiento de influenza y VSR reportados actualmente para Argentina. DISCUSIÓN El modelo general propuesto, en condiciones de disminución transitoria en la transmisibilidad, exhibe una epidemiología compatible con la observada recientemente en Argentina para ambas enfermedades e ilustra el modelado como herramienta útil en la comprensión de efectos no intuitivos.

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION Mathematical models of infectious diseases transmission allow to study different mechanisms which affect their temporal behavior. This work analyzed the impact of the decrease in transmissibility, as a result of measures of personal care adopted to reduce circulation of COVID-19, on the dynamics of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). METHODS A deterministic SIRS (susceptible-infected-recovered-susceptible) model with seasonal modulation was used to represent two diseases with short-term immunity and annual cycle: influenza and RSV. Changes in disease transmissibility were modeled by reducing it for two years and analyzing different scenarios. RESULTS In the proposed model, transmissibility reduction brings changes which sustain in the following years: very pronounced epidemic events with lengthening of the inter-outbreak interval. This effect prevails over the seasonal behavior. The scenario of 40% initial reduction in transmissibility is compatible with the behavior of influenza and RSV currently reported in Argentina. DISCUSSION The general model proposed here, under conditions of temporary reduced transmissibility, shows an epidemiology compatible with recently reported data of influenza and RSV in Argentina. This result illustrates modeling as a useful tool to understand non-intuitive effects.

Green Products Purchase Intention in Chilean Consumers: Comparing Three Models Using Structural Equations / Intención de Compra de Productos Ecológicos en Consumidores Chilenos: Comparación de Tres Modelos por Ecuaciones Estructurales

Abstract The objective of this study was to compare three models: the theory of reasoned action (TRA), the theory of planned behavior (TPB), and its extended form (ETPB), to predict the intention of Chilean consumers for purchasing green products. Five hundred people were surveyed, establishing an inter-rater reliability analysis, and a discriminant, convergent and construct validity using three structural equation models (SEM). The results showed that the ETPB model is useful to explain the consumption behavior intention for green products based on a triple bottom line, whose main contribution is the indirect effect of EC on the model. The study found that of the three variables, PBC was the strongest predictor of purchase intention, followed by attitude. In conclusion, both the ETPB model and the green products purchase intention instrument contribute to broaden the studies about consumer behavior in sustainable marketing in Chile.

Resumen El objetivo del presente estudio fue comparar los modelos de teoría de acción razonada (TAR), teoría de comportamiento planificado (TCP) y su forma extendida (TCPE), para predecir la intención de compra de productos ecológicos en consumidores chilenos. Se encuestaron 500 personas y se estableció un análisis de fiabilidad interjuez, validez discriminante, convergente y de constructo a través de modelos de ecuaciones estructurales (SEM). Los resultados señalan que el modelo TCPE es útil para explicar la intención de comportamiento de consumo ante productos verdes con base en una triple línea de fondo, cuya principal contribución es el efecto indirecto de PA sobre el modelo. De las tres variables, se evidencia que el CCP era la predictora más fuerte de la intención de compra, seguida de la actitud. En conclusión, tanto el modelo TCPE como el instrumento de intención de compra de productos verdes contribuyen a la ampliación de estudios sobre el comportamiento del consumidor en marketing sustentable en Chile.

El efecto de la poda de Acropora palmata como estrategia para la obtención de tejido vivo en acciones de restauración arrecifal

Introducción: Los arrecifes de coral son ecosistemas altamente degradados, por lo que ha sido necesario implementar acciones de restauración activa para recuperar su estructura y funcionamiento. Se ha implementado la propagación clonal para obtener fragmentos pequeños (~ 10 cm) de las ramas distales de colonias donadoras de corales de la especie Acropora palmata, para posteriormente fijarlos en el sustrato arrecifal, simulando el efecto de dispersión que ocurre de manera natural en esta especie, a lo que en este trabajo se denomina ''dispersión asistida". Sin embargo, es necesario evaluar los efectos de esta técnica como son: la cantidad de fragmentos que se puede obtener de cada colonia, el periodo de recuperación de tejido de las colonias donadoras y los fragmentos sembrados. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de poda en las colonias donadoras estimando el porcentaje de tejido podado de colonias donadoras de A. palmata y su tasa de recuperación 30 meses después. Métodos: Se realizaron cuatro monitoreos: antes, inmediatamente después de la poda, un mes después de la siembra, y 30 meses después, en cuatro colonias de A. palmata localizadas en el Parque Nacional Costa Occidental de Isla Mujeres, Punta Cancún y Punta Nizuc en el Caribe mexicano. La modelación 3D basada en fotogrametría se realizó con el software Agisoft Metashape Pro, mientras que las métricas de área de superficie de tejido, extensión radial y apical se obtuvieron mediante el software CloudCompare. Resultados: Posterior a la colecta de fragmentos de las colonias, se observó que el material utilizado en la dispersión asistida representa menos del 12% del tejido vivo. Después de un mes, las colonias donadoras presentaban una recuperación del 5% con tejido nuevo recubriendo las áreas de corte. Las colonias donadoras perdieron, en promedio, 65% de tejido vivo tras el impacto de cuatro huracanes, y en un caso la colonia fue totalmente eliminada, pero con los fragmentos sembrados se pudo conservar el genotipo. Conclusiones: La dispersión asistida podría incrementar el tejido vivo de corales ramificados en intervalos de tiempo relativamente cortos, sin comprometer la integridad de la colonia donadora, si se poda menos del 12%.

Introduction: Coral reefs are highly degraded ecosystems, for which it has been necessary to implement active restoration actions to recover their structure and functioning. Asexual propagation has been implemented to obtain small fragments (~10 cm) from the distal branches of donor colonies of corals of the species Acropora palmata, to subsequently relocate them in the reef substrate, simulating the dispersion effect that occurs naturally in the species, which in this work is called assisted propagation. However, it is necessary to evaluate the effects of this technique, such as the number of fragments that can be obtained from each colony, the tissue recovery period of the donor colonies and fragments. Objective: To address the effect of pruning on donor colonies by estimating the percentage of live tissue removed from donor colonies of A. palmata and their recovery rate after 30-months. Methods: Four surveys were carried out: before, immediately after pruning, one month after outplanting, and 30 months after pruning on four colonies of A. palmata located in the Parque Nacional Costa Occidental de Isla Mujeres, Punta Cancún and Punta Nizuc in the Mexican Caribbean. Photogrammetry-based 3D modeling was performed using Agisoft Metashape Pro software, while tissue surface area, radial and apical growth were obtained using CloudCompare software. Results: After fragment collection, the material used in the assisted propagation represents less than 12% of the living tissue. After one month, the donor colonies showed a recovery of 5%, with new tissue covering the cut areas. The donor colonies lost on average 65 % of living tissue after four hurricanes, and in one case the colony was lost all together, but with the outplanted fragments the genotype could be preserved. Conclusions: Assisted propagation could increase living tissue of branching corals in relatively short intervals of time, without serious damage to the donor colony if less than 12 % is removed.

Exploring factors associated with obesity in Argentinian children using structural equation modeling / Explorando factores asociados a la obesidad en niños argentinos usando un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales / Explorando fatores associados à obesidade em crianças argentinas utilizando a modelagem de equações estruturais

Abstract: Habits and behaviors related to obesity risk are strongly associated with the family environment and are affected by socioeconomic factors. Structural equation modeling (SEM) allows us to hypothesize on how the relationships between these factors occur and measure their impact. This study aimed to explore the relationship between family socioeconomic indicators and childhood obesity, mediated by habits linked to energy balance, applying a SEM. A cross sectional study was performed on 861 Argentinian schoolchildren aged 6-12 years, from 2015 to 2016. The model included three latent variables: socioeconomic status, healthy habits, and obesity. Socioeconomic status indicators and healthy habits were surveyed by self-administered parental questionnaires, whereas obesity indicators were evaluated with anthropometry. The applied model showed an acceptable fit (NFI = 0.966; CFI = 0.979; RMSEA = 0.048). Socioeconomic status positively influenced parental education, health insurance, and car possession, while negatively influenced crowding (p < 0.001). Healthy habits significantly influenced physical activity, meals frequency, and sleep hours, while negatively influenced sedentary hours and mother's nutritional status (p < 0.001). Obesity factor positively influenced body mass index, body fat, and waist-to-height ratio (p < 0.001). Finally, socioeconomic status positively influenced health habits, which in turn negatively influenced obesity factor. Healthy habits (especially physical activity and mother's nutritional status) mediated the relationship between socioeconomic status and child obesity. Further research should include other indicators related to diet, eating habits, and physical activity like neighborhood characteristics.

Resumen: Los hábitos y comportamientos relacionados con el riesgo de obesidad están fuertemente asociados al entorno familiar y se ven afectados por factores socioeconómicos. El modelo de ecuaciones estructurales (MEE) permite plantear hipótesis sobre cómo se dan las relaciones entre estos factores y medir su impacto. El objetivo del presente estudio fue explorar la relación entre los indicadores socioeconómicos familiares y la obesidad infantil, mediada por hábitos relacionados con el balance energético, aplicando un MEE. Se realizó un estudio transversal con 861 escolares argentinos de 6 a 12 años entre 2015 y 2016. El modelo incluyó tres variables latentes: nivel socioeconómico, hábitos saludables y obesidad. Los indicadores nivel socioeconómico y hábitos saludables se midieron mediante cuestionarios autoadministrados a los padres, mientras que los indicadores de obesidad se obtuvieron mediante antropometría. El modelo aplicado presentó un ajuste aceptable (NFI = 0,966; CFI = 0,979; RMSEA = 0,048). El nivel socioeconómico influyó positivamente en la escolaridad de los padres, en el plan de salud y en el hecho de tener automóvil, mientras que influyó negativamente en el hacinamiento (p < 0,001). La variable hábitos saludables influyó significativamente en la actividad física, en la frecuencia de las comidas y en las horas de sueño, pero influyó negativamente en las horas sedentarias y en el estado nutricional materno (p < 0,001). El factor obesidad influyó positivamente en el índice de masa corporal, en la grasa corporal y en la razón cintura/talla (p < 0,001). Finalmente, el nivel socioeconómico influyó positivamente en los hábitos saludables, que, a su vez, influyeron negativamente en la obesidad. Los hábitos saludables, en especial la actividad física y el estado nutricional materno, moderan la relación entre el nivel socioeconómico y la obesidad infantil. Las nuevas investigaciones deberían incluir otros indicadores relacionados con la dieta, con los hábitos alimentarios y con la actividad física, así como con las características del vecindario.

Resumo: Hábitos e comportamentos relacionados ao risco de obesidade estão fortemente associados ao ambiente familiar e afetados por fatores socioeconômicos. A modelagem de equações estruturais (MEE) permite levantar hipóteses sobre como ocorrem as relações entre esses fatores e medir seu impacto. O objetivo do presente estudo foi explorar a relação entre os indicadores socioeconômicos familiares e a obesidade infantil, mediada por hábitos ligados ao balanço energético, aplicando uma MEE. Um estudo transversal foi realizado com 861 escolares argentinos de 6 a 12 anos entre 2015 e 2016. O modelo incluiu três variáveis latentes: nível socioeconômico, hábitos saudáveis e obesidade. Os indicadores do nível socioeconômico e de hábitos saudáveis foram medidos por meio de questionários autoaplicáveis aos pais, enquanto os indicadores de obesidade foram obtidos por meio de antropometria. O modelo aplicado apresentou um ajuste aceitável (NFI = 0,966; CFI = 0,979; RMSEA = 0,048). O nível socioeconômico influenciou positivamente a escolaridade dos pais, o plano de saúde e a posse de automóvel, enquanto influenciou negativamente a aglomeração (p < 0,001). A variável hábitso saudáveis influenciou significativamente a atividade física, a frequência das refeições e as horas de sono, mas influenciou negativamente as horas sedentárias e o estado nutricional materno (p < 0,001). O fator obesidade influenciou positivamente o índice de massa corporal, a gordura corporal e a relação cintura/estatura (p < 0,001). Finalmente, o nível socioeconômico influenciou positivamente os hábitso saudáveis, que por sua vez influenciou negativamente a obesidade. Hábitos saudáveis, especialmente atividade física e estado nutricional materno, mediam a relação entre nível socioeconômico e obesidade infantil. Novas pesquisas devem incluir outros indicadores relacionados à dieta, hábitos alimentares e atividade física, como características da vizinhança.

Invitation to Mathematical Psychology: Models and Benefits of Formal Theorizing / Convite à Psicologia Matemática: Modelos e Benefícios da Teorização Formal

ABSTRACT In most areas, psychological phenomena tend to be explained only through textual constructions. Several authors, however, point to the need for theories that have a more formal nature, based on mathematical reasoning. In order to encourage broader access to its applications, we present the models and advantages of a mathematical psychology approach to the study of behavior. We review the limitations of verbal theorizing, then a common taxonomy in mathematical psychology follows, that classifies formal models as descriptive, process characterization, and explanatory. As well succeeded cases, we examine the mathematical psychology of decision making, of helping behavior, of memory, and of romantic relationships. Finally, we discuss the potential benefits and uses of this approach. Welcome to mathematical psychology.

RESUMO Na maior parte das áreas os fenômenos psicológicos tendem a ser explicados apenas por meio de construções textuais. Diversos autores, no entanto, apontam para a necessidade de teorias que tenham uma natureza mais formal, baseada em raciocínio matemático. A fim de incentivar acesso mais amplo às suas aplicações, apresentamos os modelos e vantagens da abordagem da psicologia matemática para o estudo do comportamento. Revisamos as limitações da teorização verbal, apresentando em seguida uma taxonomia, comum na psicologia matemática, que classifica os modelos de dados como descritivos, explicativos e de caracterização. Como casos bem sucedidos, examinamos a psicologia matemática da tomada de decisão, do comportamento de ajuda, da memória e dos relacionamentos românticos. Por fim, discutimos os benefícios e usos potenciais da abordagem. Bem-vindo(a) à psicologia matemática.

Development of inclusion complex based on cyclodextrin and oxazolidine derivative

Abstract Oxazolidine derivatives (OxD) have been described as third-line antibiotics and antitumoral agents. The inclusion complexes based on cyclodextrin could improve the solubility and bioavailability of these compounds. A novel synthetic OxD was used, and its inclusion complexes were based on 2-hydroxy-beta-cyclodextrin (2-HPßCD). We conducted an in silico study to evaluate the interaction capacity between OxD and 2-HPßCD. Characterization studies were performed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal analyses. A kinetic study of the OxD was performed, including a cytotoxicity assay using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The maximum increment of solubility was obtained at 70 mM OxD using 400 mM 2-HPßCD. SEM analyses and FTIR spectra indicated the formation of inclusion complexes. 1H-NMR presented chemical shifts that indicated 1:1 stoichiometry. Different thermal behaviors were obtained. The pharmacokinetic profile showed a short release time. Pure OxD and its inclusion complex did not exhibit cytotoxicity in PBMCs. In silico studies provided a foremost insight into the interactions between OxD and 2-HPßCD, including a higher solubility in water and an average releasing profile without toxicity in normal cells

Biometric assessment of early stem growth at a commercial stand of African mahogany (Khaya grandifoliola)

African mahogany species (Khaya spp.) have proven to be promising in the Brazilian forestry scenario, replacing native mahogany owing to their medium-fast growth and relevant timber value. This study aimed to carry out forest inventory and assessments of a Khaya grandifoliola plantation in the first years after planting, test hypsometric models to describe tree growth, and identify the maximum commercial stem yield (i.e., greater than 6 m in height). The stand was located in the municipality of Piracanjuba (GO), where seedlings of seed origin were used. Twenty random plots with a 15 m radius were allocated, and the total height (HT), stem height (HS), diameter at breast height (DBH), crown area, and forest canopy were measured. Four hypsometric models were employed in this study. The best equation was selected based on determination coefficients and standard errors. Further, the models were cross-validated to evaluate predictability and bias. At four years of planting, the largest class of HS was found to range from 3.1 to 4.1 m, and most trees had a DBH ranging from 0.084 to 0.126 m. The percentage of trees with stems > 6 m was 8.35%. The linear model ensured more consistent results for estimating HT, while the quadratic and Weibull models led to more consistent results for HS. By using models, stem measurements can be measured based on DBH, ultimately aiding the selection of stem management strategies for the growth of forests with greater commercial value.

Proposta de modelo de acompanhamento dos gastos em saúde: uma análise para o câncer no período 2012 - 2021 / Proposal for health spending monitoring model: an analysis for cancer in the 2012 period ­ 2021

O câncer, como uma das principais causas de mortes no mundo, causa problemas econômicos para as nações. Seus gastos, além de críticos, pressionam o orçamento público, provocando, também, perda de produtividade devido aos afastamentos do trabalho, às mortes e aposentadorias prematuras. Apesar de todo o peso econômico e social do câncer, ainda são poucos os estudos sobre os gastos com essa doença. A ausência de informações mais dinâmicas impede um planejamento mais detalhado e eficiente do processo de gestão, de modo que uma visão mais aprofundada dessas correlações permitirá um planejamento e gestão mais eficientes numa área extremamente sensível da política de saúde no Brasil. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo a realização de uma análise econômica dos gastos com as internações no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) de 2012 a 2021. Para tal, utiliza uma metodologia que se inicia na extração de todos os dados públicos no período, considerando um subconjunto dos campos do Sistema de Internações Hospitalares (SIH/SUS) previamente escolhidos e todos os códigos de procedimentos relacionados ao câncer utilizados no Sistema de Gerenciamento da Tabela de Procedimentos, Medicamentos e Órteses, Próteses e Materiais Especiais do SUS (SIGTAP). Após a extração utilizando um programa desenvolvido em outro projeto no LEMAS/IMS/UERJ, os dados foram carregados numa aplicação de Business Intelligence (BI) denominada TABLEAU para análises e apresentação dos resultados, seguida de uma discussão que abrangeu comparações com outros dados nacionais e internacionais. Na sequência, esses dados extraídos foram carregados num sistema de banco de dados MySQL para futuras análises. (AU)

Cancer, as one of the main causes of deaths in the world, causes economic problems for nations. In addition to being critical, its expenses put pressure on the public budget, also causing loss of productivity due to absences from work, deaths and premature retirements. Despite all the economic and social weight of cancer, there are still few studies on the costs associated with this disease. The absence of more dynamic information prevents more detailed and efficient planning of the management process, so a more in-depth view of these correlations will allow for more efficient planning and management in an extremely sensitive area of health policy in Brazil. The objective of this work is to carry out an economic analysis of expenses with hospitalizations in the Unified Health System (SUS) from 2012 to 2021. To this end, it uses a methodology that begins with the extraction of all public data in the period, considering a subset of previously chosen Hospital Admissions System (SIH/SUS) fields and all cancer-related procedure codes used in the SUS Procedures, Medications and Orthoses, Prostheses and Special Materials Table Management System (SIGTAP). After extraction using a program developed in another project at LEMAS/IMS/UERJ, the data was loaded into a Business Intelligence (BI) application called TABLEAU for analysis and presentation of results, followed by a discussion that included comparisons with other national data and international. In sequence. these extracted data were loaded into a MySQL database system for future analysis. (AU)

Analysis of the effect of in vitro dissolution on the pharmacokinetics of albendazole

Abstract Albendazole is an anthelmintic drug commonly used in parenchymal neurocysticercosis and cystic echinococcosis. The aim of this study was to explore whether disparities in the dissolution profiles of albendazole products lead to significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters. Three generic products and the innovator were evaluated in vitro. Quality control tests were performed, and dissolution profiles were obtained according to the Mexican Pharmacopeia. Although all products passed the quality control tests, none of the generic products complied with the similarity factor (f 2). The product with the lowest f 2 value in respect to the reference was chosen for in vivo evaluation. The study was carried out in 12 healthy volunteers who received 400 mg of the generic or reference product according to a crossover design. No significant differences were found in Cmax and AUC for albendazole and its main metabolite, albendazole sulfoxide, between products. Two absorption peaks were observed in the pharmacokinetic profile, and a population (22%) with different absorption rates and delay time for the the second peak was found. Based on the results, due to the high variability in the absorption process the differences observed in vitro could not be observed in vivo.

Experiencia del síntoma en el Síndrome Coronario Agudo: comprobación de un modelo conceptual / Symptom Experience in Acute Coronary Syndrome: Testing a Conceptual Model / Experiência de sintomas nas Síndromes Coronarianas Agudas: verificação de um modelo conceitual

Introducción: el síndrome coronario agudo (SCA) se caracteriza por diferentes síntomas, por lo cual la experiencia varía de persona a persona. El Modelo conceptual del manejo de los síntomas (MCMS) de Dodd aborda este aspecto que requiere ser comprobado dentro de la práctica de enfermería. Objetivo: comprobar los postulados de la dimensión de la experiencia de los síntomas del Modelo conceptual de Dodd en personas con síndrome coronario agudo. Métodos: comprobación teórica por medio de ecuaciones estructurales. Participaron 256 individuos con diagnóstico de síndrome coronario agudo, seleccionados por muestreo probabilístico estratificado. Se recolectaron datos clínicos, sociodemográficos y se midió la evaluación y respuesta a los síntomas con cinco instrumentos válidos. Se realizó un análisis estadístico con ajuste absoluto, ajuste incremental y ajuste de parsimonia del cual derivó un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales. Resultados: se comprobó la relación bidireccional entre la severidad del síntoma (evaluación) y la toma de decisiones (respuesta al síntoma). Se conformó un modelo que explica el 44 % de la varianza sobre la toma de decisiones. Sobre esta variable también influyen otras variables como la evaluación cognitiva y el control personal. Conclusión: este modelo conceptual permitió comprender la dimensión de la experiencia del síntoma en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo, comprobando sus postulados en la práctica.

Introduction: acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is characterized by different symptoms, so the experience varies from person to person. Dodd's Conceptual Model of Symptom Management addresses this aspect that requires testing within nursing practice. Objective: to test the postulates of the symptom experience dimension of Dodd's Conceptual Model of Symptom Management in persons with acute coronary syndrome. Methods: theoretical testing by means of structural equations. A total of 256 individuals with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome, selected by stratified probability sampling, participated. Clinical and sociodemographic data were collected, and symptom assessment and response were measured with five valid instruments. Statistical analysis was performed with absolute adjustment, incremental adjustment and parsimony adjustment from which a structural equation model was derived. Results: the bidirectional relationship between symptom severity (assessment) and decision making (symptom response) was tested. A model was formed that explains 44% of the variance on decision making. This variable is also influenced by other variables such as cognitive evaluation and personal control. Conclusion: this conceptual model allowed us to understand the dimension of symptom experience in patients with acute coronary syndrome, proving its postulates in practice.

Introdução: Síndromes coronarianas agudas (SCA) caracterizam-se por diferentes sintomas, pelo que a experiência muda de pessoa para pessoa. O Modelo conceitual do manejo dos sintomas (MCMS) de Dodd aborda esse aspecto que precisa testes na prática de enfermagem. Objetivo: verificar os postulados da dimensão da experiência dos sintomas do Modelo conceitual de Dodd em pacientes com síndrome coronariana aguda. Métodos: verificação teórica por meio de equações estruturais. Participaram 256 indivíduos com diagnóstico de síndrome coronariana aguda, selecionados por amostragem probabilística estratificada. Dados clínicos e sociodemográficos foram coletados e a avaliação e resposta aos sintomas foi medida com cinco instrumentos válidos. Foi realizada análise estatística com ajuste absoluto, ajuste incremental e ajuste de parcimônia que derivou num modelo de equaciones estruturais. Resultados: verificou-se o relacionamento bidirecional entre a gravidade do sintoma (avaliação) e a tomada de decisão (resposta ao sintoma). Um modelo que explica 44% da variância sobre a tomada de decisão foi conformado. Sobre essa variável também influem outras variáveis como a avaliação cognitiva e o controlo pessoal. Conclusão: este modelo conceitual permitiu compreender a dimensão da experiência do sintoma em doentes com síndrome coronariana aguda, verificando seus postulados na prática.

A new target for improving osteoporosis with eldecalcitol—Mini-modeling bone formation / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

As a basic anti-osteoporosis drug, active vitamin D mainly promotes intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphorus, inhibits the release of parathyroid hormone, and maintains normal blood calcium and phosphorus levels, thus ensuring bone health. Eldecalcitol(ED-71), a novel derivative of active vitamin D, was approved for clinical treatment of osteoporosis in Japan in 2011. Eldecalcitol not only improves intestinal calcium absorption and inhibits osteoclast differentiation, but also effectively promotes "mini-modeling" bone formation-focal bone formation that is independent of osteoclastic bone resorption, elevating trabecular continuity and increasing the thickness of weak trabeculae, thereby repairing the microinjury of bone tissue.