Research on dermal dressings has become increasingly important due to the need for affordable, effective, and accessible alternatives to costly and invasive conventional treatments, with materials such as Latex from Hevea brasiliensis and Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) standing out for their biocompatibility, elasticity, ease of processing, angiogenic potential, and low production cost. This study compared four latex/PVA membrane ratios: 50%/50%, 75%/25%, 80%/20%, and 90%/10%. Several techniques, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), swelling and tensile tests, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), zeta potential measurements, and in vitro biological assays, were employed. Results showed that membranes with 75%/25% and 80%/20% ratios exhibited superior physicochemical properties. The presence of PVA increased the swelling rate of the membranes, while the zeta potential analysis indicated that latex enhances the negative surface charges. Mechanically, the latex/PVA blend significantly influenced the samples' behavior: the 50%/50% and 75%/25% compositions reduced the latex elastomeric capacity, whereas the 80%/20% and 90%/10% compositions exhibited a more amorphous behavior, similar to that of pure latex. SEM analysis revealed homogeneity, porosity, and surface roughness in these compositions. In vitro biological assays indicated enhanced cell adhesion and proliferation, suggesting a promising synergy of these polymers for dermal dressings.
PURPOSE:This study aimed to identify and synthesize published algorithms for identifying the initiation of a new line of therapy (LOT) for metastatic lung, breast, and colorectal cancer in real-world data (RWD). METHODS:We conducted a scoping review of published, English-language studies describing algorithms for identifying any LOTs with systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) for either non-metastatic or metastatic lung, breast, or colorectal cancer in RWD between January 1, 2014, and April 29, 2024. Dual reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Data were extracted, categorized, synthesized, and summarized in narrative and tabular formats. RESULTS:The review identified 25 studies, mainly (64%) from the United States. Electronic health/medical records (EHRs) were the most frequently utilized (72%) RWD source. Twenty-four studies (96%) described RWD algorithms for identifying the initiation of a new LOT for metastatic lung, breast, or colorectal cancer. In 23 studies, algorithms required observing a new, adjuvant, SACT after an "incident" metastatic diagnosis code, which had been preceded by a metastasis-free lookback period of varied duration. Three studies' algorithms required observation of the completion of non-metastatic LOTs before initiation of a new LOT for metastatic cancer. Three studies validated their algorithms. CONCLUSIONS:Different algorithms are being used to identify LOT initiation for metastatic cancer. Most algorithms require an incident diagnosis of metastasis before considering subsequent SACT as newly initiated LOT for metastatic cancer. However, definitions of metastasis onset and gap duration to therapy initiation vary.
Abstract Objective To estimate prevalence of physical inactivity and investigate associated factors among self-identified transgender (trans) people. Methods This was a cross-sectional study using data from the Baixada Santista Transgender Population Mapping survey. Trans people aged ≥18 years who lived, studied or worked that region in 2023 were recruited using a non-probabilistic sample. Those who reported not practicing physical activity were considered inactive. The independent variables were sociodemographic and variables related to well-being, described by relative and absolute frequencies, along with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). In order to verify associations, Pearson’s chi-square test was applied with a 5% significance level, and logistic regression analyses with odds ratio (OR) estimation were performed. Results Of the 237 participants, 40.9% were classified as inactive. The likelihood of leisure-time physical inactivity was higher among those with lower levels of education (OR 3.32; 95%CI 1.23; 8.94; p-value 0.018), those who had used mental health services in the last 12 months (OR 2.26; 95%CI 1.24; 4.09; p-value 0.007), and those with low quality of life (OR 2.39; 95%CI 1.32; 4.32; p-value 0.004). Physical inactivity was lower among people who experienced high levels of everyday discrimination (OR 0.45; 95%CI 0.21; 0.96; p-value 0.038). Conclusion Physical inactivity in the population studied was associated with lower levels of education, use of mental health services and low quality of life. More active transgender people tended to suffer greater everyday discrimination, suggesting that adherence to physical activity is not only an individual choice but also a reflection of historical, social and environmental determinants.
Abstract This article analyzes the profiles of Prouni scholarship students who entered a community university in the interior of the state of São Paulo between 2018 and 2021, focusing on their subjective perception of propensity to drop out or postpone their studies in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. Based on a survey administered to 219 students, a Multiple Correspondence Analysis was conducted, followed by a Hierarchical Cluster Analysis, in order to identify profiles according to sociodemographic, attitudinal, and academic characteristics. The analysis revealed three groups: (1) older pre-pandemic entrants; (2) pragmatic working students enrolled in evening courses; and (3) young women who entered during the pandemic. The results reinforce the need for retention policies that are sensitive to the diversity of profiles and inequalities faced by students in the private sector.
