Leukemia risk assessment of exposure to low-levels of benzene based on the linearized multistage model.

Objectives: To assess leukemia risk in occupational populations exposed to low levels of benzene. Methods: Leukemia incidence data from the Chinese Benzene Cohort Study were fitted using the Linearized multistage (LMS) model. Individual benzene exposure levels, urinary S-phenylmercapturic acid (S-PMA) and trans, trans-muconic acid (t, t-MA) were measured among 98 benzene-exposed workers from factories in China. Subjects were categorized into four groups by rounding the quartiles of cumulative benzene concentrations (< 3, 3-5, 5-12, ≥12 mg/m3·year, respectively). The risk of benzene-induced leukemia was assessed using the LMS model, and the results were validated using the EPA model and the Singapore semi-quantitative risk assessment model. Results: The leukemia risks showed a positive correlation with increasing cumulative concentration in the four exposure groups (excess leukemia risks were 4.34, 4.37, 4.44 and 5.52 × 10-4, respectively; Ptrend < 0.0001) indicated by the LMS model. We also found that the estimated leukemia risk using urinary t, t-MA in the LMS model was more similar to those estimated by airborne benzene compared to S-PMA. The leukemia risk estimated by the LMS model was consistent with both the Singapore semi-quantitative risk assessment model at all concentrations and the EPA model at high concentrations (5-12, ≥12 mg/m3·year), while exceeding the EPA model at low concentrations (< 3 and 3-5 mg/m3·year). However, in all four benzene-exposed groups, the leukemia risks estimated by these three models exceeded the lowest acceptable limit for carcinogenic risk set by the EPA at 1 × 10-6. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the utility of the LMS model derived from the Chinese benzene cohort in assessing leukemia risk associated with low-level benzene exposure, and suggests that leukemia risk may occur at cumulative concentrations below 3 mg/m3·year.

Narrative review of malignant ascites: epidemiology, pathophysiology, assessment, and treatment.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Malignant ascites (MA) is common in patients with advanced cancer, and about 60% of patients with MA experience distressing symptoms. In addition, MA has been identified as a poor prognostic factor, therefore, making the management of MA an important issue. We aimed to review literature describing MA provide a narrative synthesis of relevant studies. METHODS: A literature search of articles published between 1971 and May 2023 was performed in PubMed, and Cochrane library using the words "ascites/malignant ascites" and the theme of each section. Authors independently selected the articles used and summarized. Finally, this manuscript was obtained consensus through discussed among all authors. KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: The pathophysiological mechanism of ascites formation involves increased vascular permeability and impaired fluid drainage through the lymphatic system, which explain the occurrence of peritoneal carcinomatosis, portal hypertension due to liver tumors, liver cirrhosis in the background of hepatocellular carcinoma, and Budd-Chiari syndrome caused by tumor occlusion of the hepatic vein. The efficacy and safety of various treatments and procedures have been investigated previously; however, no treatment guidelines have been established yet. Diuretics and paracentesis are often selected as the first lines of treatment. Intraperitoneal drug administration (catumaxomab, bevacizumab, aflibercept, hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, triamcinolone), indwelling peritoneal catheters, peritoneovenous shunting, and cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy are commonly used to manage refractory ascites. A new device for this purpose is alfapump, which transfers ascites fluid from the peritoneum into the urinary bladder. In addition, thoracic epidural analgesia may be effective for managing ascites-related symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Despite these options, no standard treatment for MA has been established yet because few trials have been conducted in this area. There are many issues to be investigated, and future research and treatment development are expected.

Obscuring effect of income inequality and moderating role of financial literacy in the relationship between digital finance and China's household carbon emissions.

Households have emerged as one of the primary sources for carbon emissions in China, thus posing challenges to the "dual carbon" objectives. Digital finance, an emergent form of industry that fused advanced technology with financial services, had a pronounced impact on household carbon emissions stemming from daily consumption. However, the mechanisms driving this impact have not been adequately examined. Based on micro-level household survey data across 25 Chinese provinces from 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2018, the study identified the chief channels via which digital finance affected household carbon emissions, deriving several key findings. First, digital finance augmented household carbon emissions, presenting a significant negative impact on the climate. Second, due to the existence of "digital divide" between rural and urban areas, the impact of digital finance was more subdued in rural areas. Additionally, the effects of digital finance were more pronounced in the affluent eastern provinces. Third, income mobility obscured the positive relationship between digital finance and household carbon emissions. This is primarily attributed to the urban-rural divide in China; taking into account that urban-to-rural transfers make income distribution more equitable, there is a counterintuitive drop in per capita consumption, thereby suppressing consumption-related carbon emissions. This presented the conundrum of "income distribution equality-consumption negativity". Finally, financial literacy was identified as a crucial positive moderating role, enabling households with high financial literacy to harness the dividends of digital finance, thereby engaging in more diversified consumption activities and intensifying the negative impact of digital finance on carbon emissions. The findings reinforced the pivotal role of digital finance in bolstering efforts to combat climate change and ensuring environmentally-responsible economic advancements.

Is state-owned enterprise merging private enterprise "market choice" or "space crowding" ? -Based on the motives of equity transfer of mixed-ownership enterprises.

Many state-owned enterprises have mergers and acquisitions (M&A) with private enterprises, which has caused private enterprises to worry about their living space being squeezed. Based on 572 data records about equity transfers of Chinese listed companies extracted from CSMAR4.0 from 2013 to 2020, this paper categorized ownership structures into three categories: privatization of state-owned enterprises (Category 1), state-owned enterprises merging private enterprises (Category 2), and state-owned enterprises merging state-owned enterprises (Category 3). The categorical regression of ex-ante equity transfer motivation revealed that the motives for Category 1 conformed to the phenomenon of the "pretty girl gets married first" and "embezzlement view." Category In contrast, the motives for Category 2 conformed to the "fiscal revenue view." The categorical regression of ex-post equity transfer motivation showed that all three types significantly improved various efficiencies and represented an optimal allocation of resources. Moreover, it was revealed that the transfer of equity to state-owned enterprises by inefficient private firms in Category 2 also significantly improved enterprise efficiency. Thus, it can be considered as a rational behavior of market selection and never squeezed the space crowding. Further analysis showed that the efficiency improvement is due to the symbiotic development relationship rather than the antagonistic relationship between heterogeneous shareholders. Therefore, it is suggested to initiate market-oriented reform by actively developing ownership mixed-ownership economy and adhering to the "two unwavering" basic economic system.

Household food insecurity is associated with obesogenic health behaviours among a low-income cohort of pregnant women in Boston, MA.

OBJECTIVE: To examine associations of household food insecurity with health and obesogenic behaviours among pregnant women enrolled in an obesity prevention programme in the greater Boston area. DESIGN: Cross-sectional evaluation. Data were collected from structured questionnaires that included a validated two-item screener to assess household food insecurity. We used separate multivariable linear and logistic regression models to quantify the association between household food insecurity and maternal health behaviours (daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, sugar-sweetened beverages and fast food, physical activity, screen time, and sleep), mental health outcomes (depression and stress), hyperglycaemia status and gestational weight gain. SETTING: Three community health centres that primarily serve low-income and racial/ethnic minority patients in Revere, Chelsea and Dorchester, Massachusetts. PARTICIPANTS: Totally, 858 pregnant women participating in the First 1,000 Days program, a quasi-experimental trial. RESULTS: Approximately 21 % of women reported household food insecurity. In adjusted analysis, household food insecurity was associated with low fruit and vegetable intake (ß = -0·31 daily servings; 95 % CI -0·52, -0·10), more screen time (ß = 0·32 daily hours; 95 % CI 0·04, 0·61), less sleep (ß = -0·32 daily hours; 95 % CI -0·63, -0·01), and greater odds of current (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4·42; 95 % CI 2·33, 8·35) or past depression (AOR 3·01; 95 % CI 2·08, 4·35), and high stress (AOR 2·91; 95 % CI 1·98, 4·28). CONCLUSIONS: In our sample of mostly low-income, racial/ethnic minority pregnant women, household food insecurity was associated with mental health and behaviours known to increase the likelihood of obesity.

Assessment of influence of facemask treatment with skeletal anchorage on the temporomandibular joint using magnetic resonance imaging: a preliminary study

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of facemask treatment with skeletal anchorage on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in patients with Class III malocclusion, accompanied by maxillary retrusion. Methods: Fifteen patients with a mean age of 12.1±1.43 years were included in the study. All patients were treated using facemask with skeletal anchorage after eight weeks of Alternate Rapid Maxillary Expansion and Constriction (Alt-RAMEC) protocol. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed before and immediately after facemask treatment for TMJ evaluation. Disc position, condylar translation, degenerative changes of the condyles, and joint effusion were evaluated. To assess whether the alterations associated with the treatment were statistically significant, McNemar and marginal homogeneity tests were used. Results: After facemask treatment, a statistically significant change was observed in the disc position (an anterior disc displacement with/without reduction in five TMJs) (p<0.05). The alteration in the condylar translation was not statistically significant (p>0.05). This treatment did not cause degenerative changes of the condyles or effusion in any of the TMJs. Conclusion: Facemask treatment with skeletal anchorage following the Alt-RAMEC protocol had a minimal influence on the TMJ, only by means of disc position, which was not negligible. Long-term results of such treatment are required for following up the changes observed in the TMJs.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo desse estudo foi investigar a influência do tratamento com máscara facial com ancoragem esquelética na articulação temporomandibular (ATM), por meio de ressonância magnética (RM), em pacientes com má oclusão de Classe III acompanhada de retrusão maxilar. Métodos: Quinze pacientes com idade média de 12,1±1,43 anos foram incluídos no estudo. Todos os pacientes foram tratados com máscara facial com ancoragem esquelética após oito semanas de protocolo de Expansão Rápida da Maxila e Constrição Alternadas (Alt-RAMEC). Os exames de ressonância magnética foram realizados antes e imediatamente após o tratamento com máscara facial, para avaliação da ATM. Foram avaliados posição do disco, translação condilar, alterações degenerativas dos côndilos e derrame articular. Os testes de McNemar e de homogeneidade marginal foram utilizados para avaliar se as alterações associadas ao tratamento foram estatisticamente significativas. Resultados: Após o tratamento com máscara facial, uma mudança estatisticamente significativa foi observada na posição do disco (deslocamento anterior do disco com/sem redução em cinco ATMs) (p<0,05). A alteração na translação condilar não foi estatisticamente significativa (p>0,05). Esse tratamento não causou alterações degenerativas dos côndilos ou derrame em qualquer das ATMs. Conclusão: O tratamento com máscara facial com ancoragem esquelética ápós o protocolo Alt-RAMEC teve uma influência mínima na ATM, apenas quanto à posição do disco, que não foi desprezível. Resultados em longo prazo desse tratamento são necessários para acompanhar as mudanças observadas nas ATMs.

Assessment of Fish Diversity in the Ma'an Archipelago Special Protected Area Using Environmental DNA.

This study aimed to investigate the practical validity of the environmental DNA (eDNA) method for evaluating fish composition and diversity in different habitats. We evaluated the fish composition and diversity characteristics of seven different habitats in the Ma'an Archipelago Special Protected Area in April 2020. The results showed that a total of twenty-seven species of fishes belonging to six orders, eighteen families, and twenty-three genera of the Actinopterygii were detected in the marine waters of the Ma'an Archipelago Special Protected Area. The dominant species in each habitat were Larimichthys crocea, Paralichthys olivaceus, and Lateolabrax maculatus. The mussel culture area had the highest number of species, with 19 fish species, while the offshore bulk load shedding platform had the lowest number of species, with 12 fish species. The rest of the habitat was not significantly different. The results showed that the mussel culture area had the highest diversity index (average value of 2.352 ± 0.161), and the offshore bulk load shedding platform had the lowest diversity index (average value of 1.865 ± 0.127); the rest of the habitat diversity indices did not differ significantly. A comparison with historical surveys showed that the eDNA technique can detect species not collected by traditional methods such as gillnets and trawls. Our study demonstrates the role of eDNA technology in obtaining fish diversity in different habitats and provides a theoretical basis for the continuous monitoring and management of fish biodiversity in protected areas.

Potential hepatoprotective effects of Cistanche deserticola Y.C. Ma: Integrated phytochemical analysis using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, target network analysis, and experimental assessment.

Cistanche deserticola Y.C. Ma (CD) possesses hepatoprotective activity, while the active ingredients and involved mechanisms have not been fully explored. The objective of this study was to investigate the chemical composition and hepatoprotective mechanisms of CD. We primarily used ultra-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) to identify the phenylethanoid glycoside (PhG) components of CD. Then, network analysis was used to correlate and predict the pharmacology of the identified active components of PhGs with hepatoprotection. Next, the mechanisms of the core components and targets of action were explored by cellular assays and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) target competition assays. Finally, its hepatoprotective effects were further validated in in vivo experiments. The results showed that a total of 34 PhGs were identified based on the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS method. Echinacoside (ECH) was identified as the key ingredient, and TLR4 and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) were speculated as the core targets of the hepatoprotective effect of CD via network analysis. The cellular assays confirmed that PhGs had significant anti-inflammatory activity. In addition, the real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot indicated that ECH notably reduced the levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), as well as the mRNA expression of TLR4, TNF-α, and IL-6, and decreased the high expression of the TLR4 protein, which in turn downregulated the myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), p-P65 and TNF-α proteins in the inflammatory model. The target competition experiments suggested that ECH and LPS could competitively bind to the TLR4 receptor, thereby reducing the expression of TLR4 downstream proteins. The results of in vivo studies showed that ECH significantly ameliorated LPS-induced hepatic inflammatory infiltration and liver tissue damage and reduced serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in mice. Moreover, ECH remarkably inhibited the release of inflammatory factors such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1ß, and MCP-1 in the serum of mice, exerting the hepatoprotective effect by the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. More importantly, ECH could act as a potential inhibitor of TLR4 and deserves further in-depth study. Our results could provide a basis for exploring the hepatoprotective properties of CD.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Adherence and Treatment Cost in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cardiovascular Disease.

Objective: To determine whether continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) adherence reduces health care-related costs or use in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and comorbid cardiovascular disease (CVD). Patients: A total of 23 million patients with CVD were identified in the Medicare fee-for-service database. Of the 65,198 who completed a sleep study between January 2016 and September 2018, 55,125 were diagnosed as having OSA and 1758 were identified in the 5% Medicare durable medical equipment (DME) database. Methods: Patients with DME claims were categorized as adherent (AD, treatment evidenced ≥91 days after CPAP initiation; n=614) or nonadherent (nAD, n=242) to CPAP therapy. In addition, 9881 individuals with CVD who were not diagnosed as having OSA after sleep testing and without CPAP initiation were included as control patients. Propensity score matching balanced the groups for age, sex, and comorbidities (eg, diabetes mellitus), resulting in 241 participants per cohort. Dependent variables included total episode-of-care, inpatient, outpatient, skilled nursing, home health, and DME costs across 12 months. Results: Total episode-of-care costs of AD participants ($6825) were lower than those of nAD ($11,312; P<.05) and control ($8102) participants. This difference (Δ) was attributable to fewer outpatient expenses (Δ$2290; P<.05) relative to the nAD group and fewer inpatient expenses (Δ$745) relative to the control group because skilled nursing costs were comparable between groups (P=.73). Conclusion: Adherence to CPAP treatment reduces annual health care-related expenses by 40% in Medicare patients with CVD and OSA.

The S-shaped relationship between R&D investment and green innovation after cross-border merge and acquisition: evidence from China.

In the economic transition process, emerging markets are recognizing the importance of accessing sophisticated technologies to green innovation. After cross-border merge and acquisition (M&A), research and development (R&D) investment has become the basic condition for acquiring mature market technologies. Many studies suggest that R&D can promote green innovation. However, in the context of cross-border M&A, the relationship between R&D and green innovation is more complicated. Based on the knowledge-based view and stakeholder theory, this paper takes 230 cross-border M&A events at Chinese enterprises as samples. The conclusions show that instead of a linear relation, the influence of R&D input on green innovation performance after cross-border M&A is in an "S-shape"; the political connection and institutional distance of enterprises play a negative role in promoting the relationship between R&D input and green innovation performance after cross-border M&A.

Can technology-driven cross-border mergers and acquisitions promote green innovation in emerging market firms? Evidence from China.

Emerging markets face severe ecological and environmental problems in periods of economic and political transition. The existing literature analyses the impact of technology on environmental benefits and the role of technology on the green innovation of enterprises, mostly from the perspective of technology spillover in enterprises in mature markets. Based on a sample of 229 Chinese cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&As), this paper explores the role of technology-driven cross-border M&As (TDC M&As) in green innovation, finding that TDC M&As have a significant promoting effect on green innovation. A higher degree of ownership concentration positively promotes the relationship between TDC M&As and green innovation in the enterprise. This paper divides enterprises into state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and political connection enterprises, with the nature of SOEs negatively affecting the relationship between TDC M&As and green innovation, the nature of political connections significantly promoting the relationship. Similarly, formal institutional distance negatively interacts with TDC M&As to affect the green innovation of enterprises, while informal distance interacts positively with TDC M&As. This paper has important implications for emerging market enterprises in realising the transformation of the mode of economic growth and achieving harmonious development between enterprises and the environment.

Occupational health risk assessment of BTEX in municipal solid waste landfill based on external and internal exposure.

Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) released from landfills have received increased attention because of their health risks. In this study, individual external and internal exposures of BTEX in a municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill were simultaneously studied for the first time. Eight workers from the landfill (as the case group) and eight control subjects were enrolled in the study. In total, 88 air samples and 232 urine samples (194 samples from the case group and 38 samples from the control group) were obtained from 2018 to 2019. According to the results of external exposure monitoring, benzene was the predominant component of BTEX, and the exposure level was higher in winter than in other seasons. Carcinogenic (RiskT) and noncarcinogenic (HIT) risks were calculated based on a dose-response model. The RiskT (1.64 × 10-8-1.09 × 10-6) might exceeded the limit, whereas HIT (9.84 × 10-4-1.40 × 10-2) was within their thresholds. Benzene was the major contributor to both RiskT and HIT. Internal exposures were evaluated by measuring urinary metabolites of BTEX. Levels of urinary BTEX metabolites for case group were higher than those for control group. A remarkable increase in urinary metabolites was observed from the urine samples of the case group after their shift compared with those before their shift. t,t-MA, the metabolite of benzene, was found to exceed the biomonitoring guidance limits of both China and the United States of America. Landfills can be considered as a potential BTEX exposure source for landfill employees. Minimizing occupational exposures and appropriate personal protective equipment are needed in reducing BTEX exposures.

Reflexões sobre o plágio e a fraude em estudos brasileiros / Reflections on plagiarism and fraud in Brazilian studies / Reflexiones sobre plagio y fraude en estudios brasileños

Resumo Este estudo reflete sobre o plágio e a fraude na produção científica brasileira por meio de revisão integrativa de artigos publicados entre janeiro de 2009 e junho de 2019. As publicações foram buscadas nas bases DOAJ, Lilacs, PubMed, SciELO e Web of Science, com os descritores exatos "plagiarism", "scientific misconduct", "fraud" e "Brazil". Com a rápida expansão da internet e o desenvolvimento tecnológico, os casos de má conduta na produção científica aumentaram, ocorrendo, por exemplo, adulteração, invenção ou reutilização de dados, múltiplas submissões, conflitos de autoria e de interesses, publicação "salame" (fracionada) e plágio. Entre as más condutas acadêmicas mais comuns estão a "cola" e o plágio, presentes nos mais diversos níveis de ensino, da educação básica à educação superior.

Abstract This integrative review reflects on plagiarism and fraud in Brazilian studies based on scientific production and academic attitude. Literature search of articles published between January 2009 and June 2019 was conducted in the DOAJ, LILACS, PubMed, SciELO and Web of Science databases, using the exact descriptors "Plagiarism," "Scientific Misconduct," "Fraud" and "Brazil." The rapid expansion of the internet and technological development lead to increased cases of misconduct in scientific production, occurring, for example, tampering, fabrication or reuse of data, multiple submissions, conflicts of authorship and interests, salami publication (salami slicing) and plagiarism. Among the most common academic misconducts are the copying and plagiarism, present at all education levels, whether in primary or tertiary education.

Resumen Este estudio promueve una reflexión sobre el plagio y el fraude en estudios brasileños basados en la producción científica y la postura académica a través de una revisión integradora de artículos publicados entre enero de 2009 y junio de 2019. Se realizó una búsqueda en las bases de datos DOAJ, LILACS, PubMed, SciELO y Web. of Science, utilizando los descriptores exactos "Plagio", "Mala conducta científica", "Fraude" y "Brasil". Con la rápida expansión de Internet y el desarrollo tecnológico, han aumentado los casos de mala conducta en la producción científica, ocurriendo, por ejemplo, adulteración, invención o reutilización de datos, múltiples presentaciones, conflictos de autoría e intereses, publicación "salami" (fraccional) y plagio. Entre las faltas académicas más comunes se encuentran el "pegamento" y el plagio, presentes en los más diversos estratos, ya sea en la Educación Básica o en la Educación Superior.

Genome-Based Targeted Sequencing as a Reproducible Microbial Community Profiling Assay.

Current sequencing-based methods for profiling microbial communities rely on marker gene (e.g., 16S rRNA) or metagenome shotgun sequencing (mWGS) analysis. We present an approach based on a single-primer extension reaction using a highly multiplexed oligonucleotide probe pool. This approach, termed MA-GenTA (microbial abundances from genome tagged analysis), enables quantitative, straightforward, cost-effective microbiome profiling that combines desirable features of both 16S rRNA and mWGS strategies. The use of multiple probes per target genome and rigorous probe design criteria enabled robust determination of relative abundance. To test the utility of the MA-GenTA assay, probes were designed for 830 genome sequences representing bacteria present in mouse stool specimens. Comparison of the MA-GenTA data with mWGS data demonstrated excellent correlation down to 0.01% relative abundance and a similar number of organisms detected per sample. Despite the incompleteness of the reference database, nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) clustering based on the Bray-Curtis dissimilarity metric of sample groups was consistent between MA-GenTA, mWGS, and 16S rRNA data sets. MA-GenTA represents a potentially useful new method for microbiome community profiling based on reference genomes.IMPORTANCE New methods for profiling the microbial communities can create new approaches to understanding the composition and function of those communities. In this study, we combined bacterial genome-specific probe design with a highly multiplexed single primer extension reaction as a new method to profile microbial communities, using stool from various mouse strains as a test case. This method, termed MA-GenTA, was benchmarked against 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metagenome sequencing methods and delivered similar relative abundance and clustering data. Since the probes were generated from reference genomes, MA-GenTA was also able to provide functional pathway data for the stool microbiome in the assayed samples. The method is more informative than 16S rRNA analysis while being less costly than metagenome shotgun sequencing.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of a supported employment intervention for people with mood and anxiety disorders in Denmark - the IPS-MA intervention.

OBJECTIVES: We aimed to investigate the cost-utility and cost-effectiveness of a modified Individual Placement and Support intervention for people with mood and anxiety disorders (IPS-MA). METHODS: Costs were assessed from a societal perspective. Health care costs were derived from registers and combined with data on use of IPS-MA services, municipal social care, and labour market services. EQ-5D was used to compute QALY. Missing data were imputed in a sensitivity analysis. We also computed the cost per gain in hours worked. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) were computed and bootstrapped to obtain confidence intervals for QALY and gain in hours worked. RESULTS: We found no difference in overall costs between groups. A significant saving was found in use of labour market services in the IPS-MA group. But the IPS-MA group had significantly lower wage earnings compared to the control group. The intervention group had a higher, though statistically in-significant, increase in QALYs than the control group. The ICER did not show statistically significant results, but there was a tendency, that IPS-MA could have a positive effect on health-related quality of life without any additional costs. However, participants in the IPS-MA group had a significantly lower gain in hours worked compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a significant saving in use of labour market services, IPS-MA was not cost-effective. Participants in the IPS-MA group worked significantly fewer hours and earned significantly less than participants in the control group at 1-year follow-up.

Assessment of the anti-rheumatoid arthritis activity of Gastrodia elata (tian-ma) and Radix aconitic lateralis preparata (fu-zi) via network pharmacology and untargeted metabolomics analyses.

AIM: Gastrodia elata and Radix aconiti lateralis preparrata are respectively named as Tian-Ma and Fu-Zi (TF) in Chinese. We explored the active components against rheumatoid arthritis (RA) from an extensively used couplet of Chinese herbs, Gastrodia elata and Radix aconiti lateralis preparata (TF) via untargeted metabolomics and network pharmacological approaches. METHODS: Water extracts of TF were mixed at ratios 1:1, 3:2 and 2:3 (w/w). Ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was then utilized as metabolomics screening. Human Metabolome (http://www.hmdb.ca/) and Lipidmaps (http://www.lipidmaps.org/) databases were used to annotate detected compounds. Further identification of vital genes and important pathways associated with the anti-RA properties of the TF preparations was done via network pharmacology, and verified by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). RESULTS: Four key compounds involved in unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis and isoflavonoid biosynthesis were identified through metabolomics analyses. Three key components of TF associated with anti-RA activity were linoleic acid, daidzein, and daidzin. Results of RT-qPCR revealed that all 3 tested TF couplets (1:1, 3:2, and 2:3) markedly suppressed the transcription of PTGS2. These results were consistent with our network pharmacological predictions. CONCLUSIONS: The anti-RA properties of Tian-Ma and Fu-Zi are associated with the inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolism pathway.

Ortodontia em saúde coletiva: epidemiologia das oclusopatias e da necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico em adolescentes / Orthodontics in public health: epidemiology of malocclusions and the need for orthodontic treatment in adolescents

A Epidemiologia tornou-se um ramo da ciência muito utilizado para a verificação das necessidades da população, o planejamento de ações e a organização dos serviços em saúde. Para isso, primeiramente, é fundamental realizar o diagnóstico situacional, a partir de dados específicos, em busca da compreensão e atuação sobre os problemas de saúde encontrados em coletividade. As oclusopatias têm sido uma das condições bucais mais prevalentes e, em consequência, houve o crescimento da demanda por tratamento ortodôntico. Nesta perspectiva, índices oclusais foram elaborados para medir a ocorrência das oclusopatias tendo em vista a priorização da necessidade de tratamento. O conhecimento da temática em escala global permitiu uma visão ampliada do problema e das estratégias desenvolvidas em saúde bucal. Neste contexto, a presente pesquisa teve os seguintes objetivos: 1) realizar uma revisão sistemática das evidências científicas existentes sobre a prevalência da necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico em adolescentes na faixa etária de 12 à 15 anos de idade; 2) investigar a prevalência das oclusopatias e a necessidade normativa de tratamento ortodôntico em adolescentes de 12 anos de idade. Na revisão sistemática foram incluídos trabalhos nacionais e internacionais publicados nas bases de dados Cochrane, Embase, Portal Regional da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), Scopus e Web of Science (WOS). A busca inicial não se limitou a nenhum filtro disponível nas bases de dados e utilizou os seguintes descritores: prevalence, epidemiology, malocclusion, index orthodontic treatment need, child e adolescent. Termos utilizados na literatura científica também foram empregados: orthodontic treatment need, index for need of orthodontic treatment, index of orthodontic treatment needs, IOTN index, dental aesthetic index e DAI index. Foram incluídas publicações que avaliaram a prevalência da necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico em adolescentes entre 12 à 15 anos de idade utilizando o Índice de Estética Dentária (DAI) e/ou Índice de Necessidade de Tratamento Ortodôntico (IOTN) em estudos epidemiológicos transversais, sem restrições de ano do periódico e idioma. Do total de artigos encontrados (n=2255), 525 estudos permaneceram após a remoção por duplicidade. Os títulos e resumos destas publicações foram avaliados e aplicando os critérios de exclusão, selecionou-se 38 artigos. Para elegibilidade, os critérios de inclusão foram empregados e 11 estudos foram eleitos. Os textos completos destas publicações foram obtidos para leitura e análise da qualidade metodológica. Com relação aos achados da necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico global, houve variabilidade nos resultados, mas observou-se que a prevalência foi considerada alta. Quanto às ações desenvolvidas, foram sugeridas a educação em saúde bucal para os adolescentes e pais com foco na prevenção e no tratamento interceptativo precoce das oclusopatias, bem como, inserção da ortodontia nos programas de saúde com a implantação de mais centros especializados. A segunda etapa desta pesquisa consistiu em um estudo observacional e transversal, realizado com 461 adolescentes de 12 anos de idade, matriculados em escolas públicas de um município de médio porte do Estado de São Paulo. A oclusão e a necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico foram avaliadas por meio da Classificação de Angle e do DAI. Os dados foram analisados utilizando estatística descritiva e as distribuições absolutas e percentuais das variáveis categóricas foram tabuladas. A verificação da associação entre os resultados dos exames clínicos para diagnóstico de oclusopatias utilizando a Classificação de Angle e o DAI foi realizada por meio do teste G, adotando-se um nível de significância de 5%. O processamento e a análise dos dados foram realizados com auxílio do Programa Epi-InfoTM versão 7.2. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). O diagnóstico da oclusão, segundo a Classificação de Angle, mostrou que 8,89% apresentavam oclusão normal, 56,83% oclusopatia em Classe I, 24,08% em Classe II e 10,20% em Classe III. A prevalência da necessidade de tratamento ortodôntico, segundo o DAI, foi de 52,69% dos adolescentes considerando tratamento eletivo à obrigatório. Houve associação entre os resultados dos exames clínicos para diagnóstico de oclusopatias utilizando a Classificação de Angle com o DAI (p <0,0001). A prevalência das oclusopatias e da necessidade normativa de tratamento ortodôntico foi elevada, sendo 18,44% dos adolescentes com necessidade de tratamento obrigatório. Os índices foram eficazes para a identificação das oclusopatias, entretanto por avaliarem aspectos clínicos distintos, poderiam ser utilizados concomitantemente para aprimorar o diagnóstico das oclusopatias(AU)

Epidemiology has become a branch of science widely used to define the needs of the population, plan actions and organize health services. For this, first, it is essential to perform the situational diagnosis, based on specific data, in search of understanding and acting on the health problems found in the community. Malocclusion has been one of the most prevalent oral conditions and, as a result, there has been an increase in demand for orthodontic treatment. In this perspective, occlusal indexes were developed to measure the occurrence of malocclusions in order to prioritize the need for treatment. The knowledge of the theme on a global scale allowed an expanded view of the problem and the strategies developed in oral health. In this context, the present research had the following objectives: 1) to carry out a systematic review of the existing scientific evidence on the prevalence of the need for orthodontic treatment in adolescents aged 12 to 15 years old; 2) to investigate the prevalence of malocclusions and the normative need for orthodontic treatment in 12-year-old adolescents.The systematic review included national and international works published in the Cochrane, Embase, Regional Portal of the Virtual Health Library (VHL Regional Portal), PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), Scopus and Web of Science (WOS) databases. The initial search was not limited to any filter available in the databases and used the following descriptors: prevalence, epidemiology, malocclusion, index orthodontic treatment need, child and adolescent. In addition, terms used in the scientific literature were also used: orthodontic treatment need, index for need of orthodontic treatment, index of orthodontic treatment needs, IOTN index, dental aesthetic index and DAI index. Were included publications that evaluated the prevalence of the need for orthodontic treatment in adolescents between 12 and 15 years of age using the Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) and / or Orthodontic Treatment Needs Index (IOTN) in cross-sectional epidemiological studies, without restrictions on year of the journal and language. Of the total articles found (n = 2255), 525 studies remained after removal due to duplication. The titles and abstracts of these publications were evaluated and applying the exclusion criteria, 38 articles were selected. For eligibility, the inclusion criteria were used and 11 studies were elected. The complete texts of these publications were obtained for reading and analysis of methodological quality. As for the actions developed, oral health education recommendations were suggested for adolescents and parents with a focus on prevention and early interceptive treatment of malocclusions, as well as insertion of orthodontics in health programs with the implementation and development of specialized centers. The second stage of this research consisted of an observational, crosssectional, survey-type study conducted with 461 12-year-old adolescents enrolled in public schools in the medium-sized municipality of the State of São Paulo. Occlusion and the need for orthodontic treatment were assessed using the Angle Classification and the DAI. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the absolute and percentage distributions of categorical variables were tabulated. The verification of the association between the results of clinical exams for the diagnosis of malocclusions using the Angle Classification and the DAI was performed using the G test, adopting a significance level of 5%. Data processing and analysis were performed using the Epi-InfoTM version 7.2 program. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). The diagnosis of occlusion, according to the Angle Classification, showed that 8.89% had normal occlusion, 56.83% occlusion Class I, 24.08% Class II and 10.20% Class III. The prevalence of the need for orthodontic treatment, according to the DAI, was 52.69% of adolescents considering elective treatment to mandatory treatment. There was an association between the results of clinical examinations for the diagnosis of malocclusions using the Angle Classification with the DAI (p <0.0001). The prevalence of malocclusions and the normative need for orthodontic treatment was high, with approximately 18,44% of adolescents in need of mandatory treatment. The indices were effective for the identification of malocclusions, however, by evaluating different clinical aspects, they could be used concomitantly to improve the diagnosis of malocclusions(AU)

Statement on the translocation potential by Pseudomonas chlororaphis MA342 in plants after seed treatment of cereals and peas and assessment of the risk to humans.

The European Commission requested EFSA to provide scientific advice on the translocation potential by Pseudomonas chlororaphis MA342 in plants after seed treatment of cereals and peas and, if applicable, for a revision of the assessment of the risk to humans by its metabolite 2,3-deepoxy-2,3-didehydro-rhizoxin (DDR) and this based on the evidence available in the dossier for renewal of the approval. The information from other P. chlororaphis strains than MA342 was taken into account with care, because the studies available in the dossier did not confirm the identity of the strain MA342 as belonging to the species P. chlororaphis. It has been concluded that there is a potential for translocation of P. chlororaphis MA342 to edible plant parts following seed treatment till an estimated concentration up to about 105 cfu/g and some exposure can be assumed by consumption of fresh commodities. Also, production of the metabolite DDR in the plant cannot be excluded. Regarding levels of DDR in the raw agricultural commodities, exposure estimates based on the limit of quantification (LOQ) for DDR in cereals cannot be further refined while there is no information on the levels of DDR in peas in the dossier. As regards genotoxicity, DDR induced chromosomal damage; however, it was not possible to conclude whether it is through an aneugenic or clastogenic mechanism. Hence, it is not possible to draw a reliable conclusion that DDR is producing an aneugenic effect nor to determine a threshold dose for aneugenicity. Thus, it is not possible to revise the human risk assessment as regards exposure to DDR. The concerns identified in the EFSA conclusion of 2017 remain.

Transparência, corrupção e má gestão: uma análise dos municípios brasileiros / Transparencia, corrupción y mala gestión: un análisis de los municipios brasileños / Transparency, corruption, and mismanagement: an analysis of Brazilian municipalities

Artigo Compromisso institucional com a transparência pública tem relação negativa com corrupção e má gestão governamental? A instituição de Lei de Acesso à Informação (LAI) reduz o custo de acesso à informação pública e o controle dos governantes sobre ela, possibilitando o monitoramento do governo. Assim, maior transparência melhoraria a performance governamental. Para testar a hipótese, usamos modelos de regressão linear para 320 municípios brasileiros. Empregamos 3 medidas do compromisso institucional dos municípios com a transparência pública: a) a regulamentação da LAI no município; b) o grau de regulamentação com base nos dispositivos da LAI em nível local; e c) o tempo de adesão como medida de institucionalização da transparência pública. Como medida de performance, consideramos irregularidades de corrupção e má gestão identificadas nos relatórios de auditorias da Controladoria-Geral da União via sorteios públicos (2011-2015), com classificação usando aprendizado de máquina não supervisionado. Os resultados da análise são 3: a) a adesão dos municípios à LAI ainda é muito reduzida; b) nos municípios que aderiram, transparência não apresenta associação com a performance governamental; e c) apenas desenvolvimento econômico e qualidade da burocracia apresentam correlação negativa com o número de irregularidades. Os resultados indicam que o esforço na direção de uma gestão mais transparente ainda não gerou os resultados esperados.

Resumen ¿El compromiso institucional con la transparencia pública reduce la corrupción y la mala gestión del gobierno? La institución de la Ley de Acceso a la Información (LAI) reduce el costo de acceso a la información pública y el control de los funcionarios del gobierno sobre ella, lo que permite que el gobierno sea monitoreado. Por lo tanto, una mayor transparencia mejoraría el desempeño del gobierno. Para probar la hipótesis, usamos modelos de regresión lineal en 320 municipios brasileños. Empleamos tres medidas del compromiso institucional de los municipios con la transparencia pública: la regulación de la LAI en el municipio; el grado de regulación basado en las disposiciones de la LAI a nivel local; y el tiempo de adhesión como medida de institucionalización de la transparencia pública. Como medida de rendimiento, consideramos las irregularidades de corrupción y mala gestión identificadas en los informes de auditoría de la Contraloría General de la Federación a través de sorteos públicos (2011-2015), con clasificación mediante aprendizaje automático no supervisado. Los resultados del análisis son tres: la adhesión de los municipios a la LAI todavía es muy baja; en los municipios que se adhirieron la transparencia no está asociada al desempeño del gobierno; y solo el desarrollo económico y la calidad de la burocracia tienen correlación negativa con el número de irregularidades. Los resultados indican que el esfuerzo hacia una gestión más transparente aún no ha generado los resultados esperados.

Abstract Does institutional commitment to public transparency reduce corruption and public mismanagement? The regulation of freedom of information laws (FOI) reduces the cost of accessing public information and the control of government officials over it, allowing for monitoring of the government. Thus, greater transparency improves government performance. To test the hypothesis, we used linear regression models for 320 Brazilian municipalities. We employ three measures of municipality institutional commitment to public transparency: FOI regulation in the municipality; the degree to which the local level regulation was based on the national law's provisions; and time the municipality took to adhere to the legislation, as a measure of institutionalization of public transparency. As a performance measure, we consider corruption and mismanagement irregularities identified in the audit reports of the Comptroller General of Brazil (2011-2015), with classification using unsupervised machine learning. The results are threefold: the municipalities' adherence to FOI is still very low; in the municipalities that regulated the law locally, transparency is not seen to be associated with government performance; only economic development and quality of bureaucracy have a negative correlation with the number of irregularities. These results indicate that the effort towards more transparent management has not yet generated the expected results.

Corrupção e má gestão nos gastos com educação: fatores socioeconômicos e políticos / Corrupción y mala gestión en los gastos en educación: factores socioeconómicos y políticos / Corruption and mismanagement in spending on education: socioeconomic and political factors

Resumo O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar os fatores socioeconômicos e políticos que influenciaram a ocorrência de corrupção e má gestão nos gastos com o ensino básico nos municípios brasileiros. As fontes de dados usadas foram os relatórios das fiscalizações realizadas pela Controladoria-Geral da União (CGU) de 2011 a 2015 e os websites da Federação das Indústrias do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FIRJAN), do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE), do Tribunal Superior Eleitoral (TSE) e da Secretaria do Tesouro Nacional (STN). Os dados foram analisados por meio de procedimentos descritivos e regressão Binomial Negativo. De modo geral, os resultados indicaram que a possibilidade de reeleição do prefeito e a atuação dos conselhos municipais afetaram significativamente a incidência de corrupção. Por sua vez, a ocorrência de má gestão apresentou relação significativa com o perfil do eleitor e atuação dos conselhos municipais. Esses achados destacam a relevância dos conselhos municipais como instrumentos de acompanhamento e fiscalização da aplicação dos recursos públicos destinados ao ensino básico nos municípios brasileiros.

Resumen El objetivo de esta investigación es analizar los factores socioeconómicos y políticos que influenciaron el surgimiento de corrupción y de mala gestión de los gastos en enseñanza básica en los municipios brasileños. Las fuentes de datos utilizadas fueron los informes de las fiscalizaciones realizadas por la Contraloría General de la Unión entre los años 2011 a 2015; y los sitios web de la Federación de las Industrias del Estado de Río de Janeiro, del Instituto Brasileño de Geografía y Estadística, del Tribunal Superior Electoral y de la Secretaría del Tesoro Nacional. Para el análisis de los datos se realizaron procedimientos descriptivos y la regresión binomial negativo. En general, los resultados indicaron que la posibilidad de reelección del alcalde y el desempeño de los consejos municipales afectaron significativamente la incidencia de la corrupción. A su vez, la mala gestión mostró una relación significativa con el perfil del votante y el desempeño de los consejos municipales. Estos hallazgos destacan la relevancia de los consejos municipales como instrumento de seguimiento y fiscalización de la aplicación de los recursos públicos destinados a la enseñanza básica de los municipios brasileños.

Abstract This research analyzes the socioeconomic and political factors that influence the occurrence of corruption and mismanagement in public spending on basic education in Brazilian municipalities. The sources of data were the inspection reports of the Comptroller General of the Union during 2011 to 2015; and the websites of the Federation of Industries of the State of Rio de Janeiro, the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, the Superior Electoral Court, and the National Treasury Secretariat. The data analysis adopted descriptive procedures and binomial negative regression. Overall, the results indicate that the possibility of reelection of the mayor and the performance of municipal councils affected the incidence of corruption. In turn, an occurrence of mismanagement shows a significant relationship with the voter's profile and the performance of municipal councils. These findings highlighted the relevance of municipal councils as an instrument for monitoring and supervising public spending on basic education of Brazilian municipalities.