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Researchers at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil conducted a study to determine the frequency of MOG-IgG antibodies in patients with AQP4-IgG seronegative NMO phenotype. Out of 118 patients tested, 10.7% were positive for MOG-IgG antibodies. The study highlights the importance of timely and comprehensive testing for accurate diagnosis in resource-limited settings. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil have developed new hybrid organic-inorganic nanoplexes for bioimaging and killing brain cancer cells, specifically glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). These nanoplexes combine nano-conjugates based on epsilon-poly-L-lysine and carboxymethylcellulose to target and treat cancer cells effectively. The study showcases the potential of these nanoplexes for multimodal chemodynamic-magnetothermal therapy of brain cancer cells, offering a promising approach for future cancer treatments. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the digitalization of education, particularly the integration of technology in schools globally. The research highlights the emergence of new stakeholders, such as EdTech startups and venture capitalists, who are shaping the educational landscape through technology. By employing network ethnography and a policy-following approach, the study provides critical insights into the governance dynamics of digital education in Brazil. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, focused on analyzing the concept of self-care for individuals with elimination ostomies. The research, which included eight studies from 2018 to 2023, found that the concept of self-care for this population is not standardized and often limited to procedural self-care. Factors influencing self-care positively included female sex, being young, married, higher education level, social support, and education, while negative influences included stress, complications, and inadequate care. The study highlights the need for a more comprehensive understanding and approach to self-care for individuals with elimination ostomies. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, compared the photophysical and phototoxic properties of porphyrins and porphyrazines under green or red light irradiation against non-melanoma skin tumor cells. The research found that porphyrins exhibited higher phototoxicity under green light, while porphyrazines performed better under red radiation. Porphyrins also showed a higher phototoxic index and greater selectivity for cancer cells compared to porphyrazines. This study is the first to compare these substances with the same substituent in terms of their photophysical response and in vitro anticancer activity. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, focused on the impact of aging on inflammation and oxidative stress, known as 'inflammaging.' The research examined the role of the Nrf2 pathway in regulating cytokine production in leukocytes treated with resveratrol, a polyphenol with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The study found that resveratrol, through the Nrf2 pathway, may help prevent oxidation and inflammation associated with aging, particularly in younger age groups. The findings were published in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics and have been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have developed a new algorithm called Background Removal Bisection (BRB) to address the challenges of data partitioning in digital pathology. This algorithm aims to create irregular-shaped cost-balanced partitions for efficient processing of whole slide tissue images (WSIs). The study found that BRB achieved significant speedups compared to previous solutions, making it a promising tool for large-scale WSI analyses in cancer research. The research has been peer-reviewed and published in Cluster Computing, offering valuable insights into improving data partitioning strategies for irregular applications in the field of pathology. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Federal University Minas in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, conducted a study comparing the tissue response and expression of interleukins (IL-1b, IL-6, IL-10) after pulp capping with bioglasses in mice. The study found that bioglass performed less effectively than calcium hydroxide (CH) when in direct contact with pulp tissue, leading to moderate to severe inflammation and disorganization. The findings suggest potential implications for dental treatments involving pulp capping. This research was supported by Coordenacao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior (CAPES) and Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPQ). [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil focused on evaluating job stress, satisfaction, and motivation among operating room nurses in the country. The study, which involved 385 participants, found a high proportion of nursing technicians and nurses experiencing moderate to high levels of stress, particularly among those working daytime hours or holding multiple jobs. The researchers concluded that the prevalence of stress among these healthcare professionals is a significant finding worth highlighting. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil explored the relationship between frailty syndrome and social networks among older Brazilian adults using data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSI-Brazil). The study found that elements of the social network, such as characteristics of social network ties, social support, and negative social interaction, were associated with pre-frailty and frailty in participants. The researchers concluded that public policies and health professionals should consider older adults' social networks to reduce/prevent frailty. This research provides valuable insights into the importance of social networks in the health and well-being of older adults in Brazil. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, focused on the synthesis and testing of indium(iii) complexes with polydentate ligands for their potential in clinical oncology. The research found that these complexes showed cytotoxic effects on various cancer cell lines and enhanced the efficacy of radiotherapeutic doses, particularly against breast tumor cells. The study concluded that these indium(iii) complexes have the potential to be multifunctional agents for treating breast cancer, with promising chemotherapeutic, radiochemotherapeutic, and radiosensitizer properties. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Federal University Minas Gerais conducted a study on inter-rater agreement in obstetrics care and risk classification. The study found moderate to strong agreement among trained and untrained nurses, with a tendency to underestimate high-risk priorities. While the protocol was deemed reliable, sensitivity in determining care priorities was low. This research provides valuable insights for improving obstetric care practices. [Extracted from the article]

A research report from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais in Brazil explores how organizational actors lead their companies' reactions to crises, particularly focusing on the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involved 128 company executives from various industries in Brazil and found that sensemaking and organizational context significantly influenced crisis reactions, emphasizing improvisation and trial-and-error in implementing new routines. The results suggest that fast sensemaking attitudes are crucial for promptly correcting courses of action during extreme crises. The research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into crisis management strategies in organizational settings. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have conducted a study on the inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) as a potential therapeutic target for various clinical disorders. Using Ligand-Based Drug Design techniques, they identified key chemical structures and interactions that could lead to the development of new FAAH inhibitors. The study concluded that these findings could pave the way for further research on FAAH inhibitors and highlighted the accuracy of the classification technique used. The research was supported by Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPQ) and Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa e Inovacao do Estado de Santa Catarina (FAPESC). [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, conducted a study on the effectiveness of preoperative coronary interventions in preventing acute myocardial infarction during major open vascular or endovascular surgery. The study found that while preoperative coronary interventions may have little to no effect on preventing perioperative acute myocardial infarction or reducing all-cause mortality, the evidence is uncertain. The researchers concluded that more extensive and consistent randomized controlled trials are needed to determine the role of preoperative coronary interventions in preventing acute myocardial infarction during major vascular surgeries. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have synthesized an ionic neodymium coordination polymer composed of an anionic one-dimensional polymer connected to a cationic three-dimensional porous polymer. The compound, which includes ligands such as 4-sulfobenzoate and isoniazid, crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c and is stabilized by hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions. This research, supported by various funding agencies, has been peer-reviewed and published in Acta Crystallographica Section C-structural Chemistry. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have conducted a study on ultra-large virtual screening (ULVS) in drug design. This method uses computational techniques to rank molecules in virtual compound libraries based on their biological activities or chemical properties. The study highlights the advancements in artificial intelligence and computational power that have enabled the screening of libraries containing over 10^9 molecules, potentially revolutionizing the drug discovery process. Funded by various organizations, the research explores different algorithms and methodologies for ULVS, showcasing its potential to identify hit candidates and increase the diversity of novel compounds with biological activities. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, focused on developing a recombinant chimeric protein vaccine against Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL). The researchers identified specific T-cell epitopes from parasite proteins to create the vaccine, which showed promising results in stimulating an antileishmanial Th1-type cellular response in vaccinated animals. The study concluded that the vaccine candidate, rCHI plus MPLA or micelles, could be effective in combating VL. This research was supported by various funding organizations and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, discusses the radiographic characteristics and chronological patterns of transient apical breakdown (TAB) in luxated permanent teeth following traumatic dental injuries. The study analyzed records from 56 patients treated at the Dental Trauma Clinic, revealing that TAB onset typically occurred within 3.2 months after trauma, with most cases resolving within 9.1 months. The findings provide valuable insights for treatment decisions during the follow-up of luxated permanent teeth, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and management. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Federal University Minas Gerais have developed a method for enhancing the detection of doxorubicin in saliva using multiphase electroextraction and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography. The study optimized extraction time, electric potential, and desorption solvent to achieve accurate results with a linear range of 50-500 µg L-1. While the enrichment factor was lower than expected, the method proved suitable for monitoring doxorubicin in complex matrices like saliva, showing potential for future sample preparation advancements. This research, funded by various organizations, has been peer-reviewed and offers valuable insights into improving drug detection in biological fluids. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ) in Brazil conducted a study on Trypanosoma rangeli, a parasite that infects triatomine bugs and mammals in South and Central America. The study found that T. rangeli establishes a persistent infection in mice, detectable in lymphoid organs long after parasites had disappeared from blood, and infected mice exhibited physiological changes. The research highlights the need for further studies on the immune response and potential impacts of T. rangeli infection in mammalian hosts. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Federal Center for Technological Education of Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, explored the production of wood-plastic composites using waste materials from disposable masks and corrugated cardboard generated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research found that composites produced through two extrusion cycles exhibited higher tensile and flexural strength compared to those produced through thermokinetic homogenization. The study offers an innovative and sustainable solution for managing post-pandemic waste, contributing to scientific and technological advancements in sustainability research. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have developed an Antiviral Medicinal Plant and Natural Product Database (avMpNp DB) to compile evidence of antiviral activity in medicinal plants and their compounds. The database contains diverse compounds with drug-like profiles and has been used to test potential treatments for SARS-CoV-2. The study was funded by various organizations and aims to accelerate drug discovery through the use of natural products. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Federal University Minas Gerais conducted a study on the impact of the Public Health Nursing Specialization Course (1988-1992) on the professional trajectories of its graduates in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The research, supported by Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG), utilized Eliot Freidson's Sociology of Professions to analyze the graduates' career advancements in administrative leadership, management, and academia within public health. The study concluded that the specialization course provided graduates with opportunities for professional autonomy, contributing to the professionalization of public health nursing in the region. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, focused on the risk factors associated with acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and its long-term complications, such as chronic rheumatic heart disease. The research highlighted the global burden of ARF, with over 80% of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries, emphasizing the role of socioeconomic factors in the disease's prevalence. The study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the individual and collective risk factors for ARF development, with the goal of improving patient outcomes through effective management strategies and targeted screening initiatives. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil conducted a study on the dietary exposure to high-intensity sweeteners among the Brazilian population, including those who are self-declared diabetic. The study found that the general Brazilian population, especially high consumers, had higher exposure to these sweeteners compared to the diabetic population. The research, supported by various organizations, analyzed data from the 2017-2018 Family Budget Survey to estimate intake levels of sweeteners like sodium cyclamate, steviol glycosides, and sucralose. The study concluded that high consumers in the general population exceeded the Acceptable Daily Intake of these sweeteners, particularly in adolescents. [Extracted from the article]

A report from the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, discusses the synthesis of functionalized naphthoquinones for the development of trypanocidal compounds. The research successfully obtained eighteen functionalized naphthoquinones, with some compounds showing greater potency against T. cruzi than the standard drug benznidazole. This study marks the first application of naphthoquinonyne chemistry for the synthesis of new compounds with potent trypanocidal activities. The research was funded by various organizations and has been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, focused on comparing the prognosis of chagasic and non-chagasic patients undergoing pacemaker implantation and cardiac resynchronization. The research, which included 911 patients, found that Chagas disease was not associated with an increased risk of death, hospitalization, or a combination of both outcomes. These results suggest potential changes in the quality of care for patients with cardiomyopathy. The study was published in Arquivos Brasileiros de Cardiologia and can provide valuable insights into cardiovascular research and patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have developed sucupira oleoresin-based doxorubicin pH-sensitive nanoemulsions as a potential nanomedicine approach to enhance the safety profile and anticancer activity of chemotherapy. The nanoemulsions were found to be stable, with high encapsulation efficiency of doxorubicin, and exhibited pH-responsive release profiles. In vivo studies showed promising results, suggesting that this nanoemulsion could offer insights for improved breast cancer treatment. The research was funded by various organizations and has been peer-reviewed, providing valuable information for the field of oncology and drug delivery science. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have developed a novel wound dressing using 3D-printed hydrogel membranes combined with nanofibrous PLA mats. The membranes, made from gelatin modified with methacrylamide groups and lignin carbon dots, showed antimicrobial activity and mechanical deformation without causing cytotoxic effects. This innovative material maintains a hydrated environment in wound areas and has potential applications in treating skin wound infections. Funding for this research was provided by various scientific development organizations in Brazil. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, explored the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on leukocyte recruitment in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a model for multiple sclerosis. The research found that CBD administration reduced leukocyte rolling and adhesion in the spinal cord microvasculature, as well as cellular tissue infiltration, by decreasing the expression of adhesion molecules. This study suggests that purified CBD may attenuate leukocyte recruitment in EAE peak disease, offering a potential therapeutic avenue for managing symptoms of autoimmune diseases affecting the central nervous system. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais conducted a study in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, to analyze the factors influencing the use of health services by people experiencing homelessness. The study found that factors such as participation in social movements, positive self-assessment of health, and drug use were associated with seeking health services. The research highlights the importance of understanding the unique needs and circumstances of individuals experiencing homelessness in accessing healthcare services. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, conducted a study on the impact of spinal damage on the functional capacity of patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). They compared two radiographic scores and found that spinal damage was associated with physical function in axSpA, but to a lesser extent than disease activity and mobility. The study concluded that incorporating cervical facet joint assessment did not improve the ability to predict function. This research has been peer-reviewed and published in The Journal of Rheumatology. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, explored memory deficits in individuals with sporadic and Type 8 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) related to emotional stimuli. The research found that both groups of ALS patients showed decreased recognition of positive emotional information compared to negative stimuli, a phenomenon not observed in healthy controls. This study sheds light on the impact of ALS on emotional memory processing and highlights the need for further research in this area. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, explored the impact of trained immunity in synovial macrophages on joint inflammation and damage following a Staphylococcus aureus infection. The research found that the activation of synovial macrophages expressing CX3CR1 contributed to exacerbated joint inflammation and damage during septic arthritis caused by S. aureus. The study, funded by various organizations, concluded that targeting the mTOR pathway with Rapamycin reduced macrophage activation, inflammation, and bone damage in the joints. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil explored the relationship between weight discrimination and identity characteristics among undergraduate students. The research found that 22.8% of the sample reported experiencing discrimination based on their body weight, with higher rates among those with lower education levels and poor self-rated health. The study concluded that addressing weight bias is crucial in combating social inequalities and promoting inclusive approaches. For more information, the research article can be accessed through the journal Revista de Nutricao. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil examined the underreporting of violence against women (VAW) in the country's Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). The study found that VAW in Brazil is highly underreported by the health sector, with underreporting rates of 98.5% for psychological violence, 75.9% for physical violence, and 89.4% for sexual violence. The research highlights the need for better training of health professionals to recognize and report instances of violence against women. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research conducted at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, on potential anti-breast cancer agents. The researchers synthesized fifteen new compounds containing a Michael Acceptor Moiety (MAM) using the cinnamamide scaffold. These compounds were tested for their impact on cell viability in two human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Eight compounds showed activity against MDA cells, and five compounds showed activity against MCF-7 cells. The most active molecule, 7f, demonstrated an IC50 of 2.5 μM towards MDA cells and a good selective index towards a normal cell line. In silico ADME studies were also conducted. This research provides new insights into potential treatments for breast cancer. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, aimed to evaluate the relationship between volatile sulfur compounds (VSC), biofilm, salivary parameters, and periodontal status in patients with and without periodontal disease. The study included 64 subjects diagnosed with periodontitis and 60 periodontally healthy individuals. The researchers found that there were no statistically significant differences in VSC concentrations, salivary flow rate, spinnability of saliva, and plaque index between the two groups. However, the periodontitis group showed a significant tongue coating index and a diminished tooth count. The study concluded that bleeding on probing, clinical attachment level, and probing depth may contribute to VSC formation. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil provides fresh data on the emergence of new genotypes of Sporothrix brasiliensis in the current epidemic of sporotrichosis in southeastern Brazil. The study used genotyping and mating-type analysis to determine the genetic diversity and population structure of Sporothrix spp. isolates. The research found high genetic variability and pronounced population structure in S. brasiliensis, with geographically focused outbreaks in Brazil. The findings contribute to understanding the genetic population processes of the fungus and can inform future mitigation efforts for the ongoing epidemic. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, have conducted a study on a 58-year-old man with severe hypothyroidism. The patient had a history of thyroidectomy and was nonadherent with thyroid medication. He presented with left-sided weakness, asteatotic eczema, and calf hypertrophy. Laboratory tests revealed high levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone and creatine kinase. After two months of thyroxine replacement, the patient's muscle strength improved and creatine kinase levels normalized. The study highlights the importance of recognizing specific signs, such as myoedema and calf hypertrophy, in diagnosing hypothyroidism and avoiding unnecessary investigations. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil explored the potential of Akkermansia muciniphila, a next-generation probiotic, in managing mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy in cancer patients. The researchers found that pretreatment with viable A. muciniphila effectively controlled inflammation, protected the intestinal mucosa and epithelial barrier, and prevented the expansion of harmful bacteria in mice. The probiotic also improved weight loss, small intestine shortening, tissue architecture, and immune response. This research provides valuable insights into the potential therapeutic applications of A. muciniphila in cancer treatment. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, explored the impact of paternal engagement on the quality of life of mothers of children with disabilities. The study found that while there was no linear correlation between paternal engagement and quality of life, most mothers expressed a desire for more help in caring for their children and wanted fathers to be more involved in their treatment. The study concluded that further research is needed to understand these dynamics in different populations and that qualitative approaches with parents are necessary. [Extracted from the article]

A scoping review conducted by researchers at the Rene Rachou Institute in Belo Horizonte, Brazil aimed to identify indicators of social inequalities associated with mortality from neoplasms (cancer) in the Brazilian adult population. The study analyzed 567 papers and found a variety of indicators, such as the Human Development Index and the Gini Index, that assessed differences in income, schooling, human development, and vulnerability. However, no single pattern of association between the indicators and different types of neoplasms was established, and no single indicator could explain the effect of social inequality across all territorial areas and types of neoplasms. The study highlighted gaps in the use of non-modifiable social indicators, analysis of small geographical areas, and limited use of multidimensional indicators. [Extracted from the article]

A systematic review conducted by researchers at Federal University Minas Gerais in Brazil explored the effectiveness of doxycycline in restorative dentistry. The review evaluated the antibacterial action and other properties of doxycycline relevant to dental materials testing. The results confirmed the therapeutic properties of the medication, particularly when incorporated in an adhesive. However, further standardization and long-term studies are needed to ensure biocompatibility and a complete understanding of its effects on dental materials. This research has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights for dental practitioners. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Federal University Minas Gerais in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, explored different methods and solvents for extracting standardized extracts of Echinodorus macrophyllus. The study found that extracts prepared using 70% ethanol and 50% ethanol had the highest extraction yields and contained elevated concentrations of chemical markers. These extracts also demonstrated superior inhibition rates of TNF and IL-1 beta release by LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells. The research highlights the importance of extraction methods and solvent selection in the production of high-quality herbal preparations for pharmaceutical applications. [Extracted from the article]