bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting the macroeconomic variables and economic growth nexus: A Markov regime-switching approach
Authors: Fiaz Asma , Khurshid Nabila , Satti Ahsan ul Haq
Published: May 2022

Purpose ―Current paper assesses the impact of macroeconomic variables on Pakistan's economic growth.
Method ― This study analyzed the data using the Markov Regime switching (MS) model using monthly data for 1981-2020. Firstly, BDS and CUSUM square tests were applied to detect the non-linearity of the model.
Results ―The model is non-linear, so the Markov regime-switching model is used for analysis. Each regime's mean and variance are highly significant and show a high growth regime with high volatility and a low growth regime with low volatility. Furthermore, the results show that inflation, interest rate, and trade openness negatively impact while real effective exchange rates positively affect development in both regimes. The negative effect of interest rate, exchange rate, inflation, and trade openness become more pronounced in low growth regimes.
Implication ― This study suggests that policymakers should consider the non-linear behaviour of macroeconomics. This will help to formulate better policies for the economy's economic growth.
Originality ―The current research adds to the existing literature by identifying the non-linear effect of growth indicators on economic growth, which was previously neglected in the case of Pakistan.
REDESCUBRIR LA SINODALIDAD ECLESIAL, INVITACIÓN Y OBJETIVO DEL PAPA
Authors: Corpas de Posada Isabel
Published: May 2022

La sinodalidad ecclesial que el papa Francisco ha invitado a redescubrir y está llevando a la práctica en su ejercicio pastoral no es una novedad. La Iglesia era sinodal desde sus primeros pasos, cuando dos discípulos caminaban con Jesús resucitado de Jerusalén a Emaús y de regreso a Jerusalén después de reconocer su presencia em el partir del pan (Lc 24,13-36). Siguió siendo sinodal en las muchas reuniones de obispos que jalonan la historia del cristianismo, pero era sinodalidad episcopal o, propiamente, colegialidade de los obispos. Lo novedoso de la sinodalidad que el papa Francisco invita a redescobrir es la visión de Iglesia que la sustenta – la eclesiologia de Pueblo de Dios que el Concilio Vaticano II formuló – y desde la cual no solo la jerarquia sino todos los bautizados y bautizadas participamos y somos corresponsables em la vida y la misión de la Iglesia.
PALABRAS CLAVE: Eclesiología. Sinodalidad. Conversión. Papa Francisco.
A SINODALIDADE COMO REFRÃO: CONTRIBUIÇÕES À IDENTIDADE ECLESIAL
Authors: Martins Filho José Reinaldo F.
Published: May 2022

O presente artigo almeja refletir sobre a dimensão da sinodalidade como expressão do autêntico modo de ser da Igreja, isto é, como sua identidade. Para isso, apropria-se de alguns aspectos do percurso sinodal recém iniciado sob nova metodologia. De maneira geral, considera a questão da sinodalidade como o grande refrão do pontificado de Francisco, como já manifesto em vários de seus textos magisteriais. A primeira parte do texto realiza uma discussão com base na etimologia do termo sínodo, evoluindo rumo a algumas de suas possibilidades interpretativas. A segunda parte orienta-se ao redor dos três conceitos metodológicos fundamentais para o processo de auscultação sinodal, quais sejam: o encontrar, o escutar e o discernir. A última parte detém-se nalguns dos alcances mais evidentes da internalização da sinodalidade como forma ordinária de expressão da vida eclesial.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Sinodalidade. Papa.Francisco. Eclesialidade. Teologia.
“LIBERTAÇÃO E SALVAÇÃO”: REVISITANDO “TEOLOGIA DA LIBERTAÇÃO” DE GUSTAVO GUTIÉRREZ 50 ANOS DEPOIS
Authors: Junior Francisco de Aquino
Published: May 2022

Gustavo Gutiérrez é uma das principais referências da teologia da libertação latino-americana. Seu livro Teologia da Libertação: perspectivas, publicado em 1971, além de ser um dos principais veículos de difusão dessa teologia, adquiriu um valor simbólico, dando nome a esse movimento teológico e se tornando como que seu marco teórico inicial. Celebrando 50 anos de publicação dessa obra, queremos retomar sua problemática teológica fundamental que tem a ver com a relação entre “libertação e salvação” e que está desenvolvida de modo mais sistemático e elaborado no capítulo 9. Ele sintetiza em seu título o núcleo da problemática de sua teologia e procura “esboçar” ou “indicar as linhas básicas da obra por empreender”. Começaremos fazendo um resumo do capítulo, apresentando sua problemática e seu desenvolvimento teológico. Em seguida, faremos algumas considerações de ordem histórico-teológica sobre essa problemática e seu desenvolvimento teológico. E concluiremos destacando a pertinência, a atualidade e o desafio de prosseguir com essa obra inacabada.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Gutiérrez. Teologia da Libertação. Salvação. Libertação.
O EXERCÍCIO DO SENSUS FIDELIUM NO SÍNODO DA DIOCESE DE TUBARÃO
Authors: Brighenti Agenor
Published: May 2022

O artigo relata a experiência da participação pessoal e faz uma breve análise da realização do Sínodo da Diocese de Tubarão na década de 1980, que  envolveu as 53 paróquias e as 600 comunidades que a compunham. Em um primeiro momento, se apresenta a preparação do processo e sua realização, em vista da reprojeção do ser e do fazer da Igreja na Diocese, através de um planejamento pastoral  participativo, de forma descentralizada, de baixo para cima. Em um segundo momento, se aborda os principais resultados do Sínodo e se faz uma breve análise, principalmente a partir dos desafios levantados. Em destaque, algumas considerações sobre o exercício da participação no processo sinodal e suas implicações, a interação entre saber popular e saber acadêmico na pastoral, terminando com a conversão à realidade como caminho de conversão ao Evangelho.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Sínodo. Diocese. Pastoral. Planejamento. Participação.
A CONSTRUÇÃO DA FRATERNIDADE E DA AMIZADE SOCIAL À LUZ DA TEOLOGIA BIBLICA DA FRATELLI TUTTI
Authors: Gonzaga Waldecir
Published: May 2022

O artigo tem como objetivo refletir sobre os conceitos ἀγαθωσύνη (agathosyne [FT, n. 112]) e χρηστότης (chrestotes [FT, n. 223]). Busca-se entender as bases bíblicas e a Teologia Bíblica da Fratelli Tutti, bem como a intuição bíblica de Francisco ao indicar as virtudes da benignidade e da bondade (Gl 5,22), como caminho para a fraternidade e a amizade social. É importante entender as bases bíblicas, explícitas e implícitas, bem como o fio condutor da Teologia da Fraternidade presente na Fratelli Tutti, a fim de perceber a missão que o Cristianismo tem diante da atual crise de amor fraterno entre as pessoas e entre os povos. Francisco indica estas duas virtudes como via privilegiada para a edificação da fraternidade e para o cuidado da casa comum, convidando a humanidade a superar a lógica do sócio e a entrar na lógica do irmão (FT, n. 101-105). Após realizar um estudo das bases bíblicas da Encíclica, busca-se fazer uma análise do texto paulino de Gl 5,22, no qual Francisco indica dois frutos do Espírito para a edificação da fraternidade e do bem. O estudo revela que Francisco tem diante de si a tradição bíblica judaico-cristã, bem como a realidade e os desafios hodiernos da falta de benignidade e de bondade. Ademais, convida a Igreja e a sociedade em geral para refletir sobre a gravidade do risco em que se encontra a humanidade, a fim de buscar saídas para a superação da atual crise de solidariedade entre as pessoas e entre os povos.
PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Solidariedade. Benignidade. Bondade. Paz. Justiça.
A CHURCH WHICH “JOURNEYS TOGETHER” — SYNODALITY IN THE ERA OF POPE FRANCIS
Authors: Czerny Michael
Published: May 2022

The article lays out how Pope Francis looks at synodality, as a process of listening and discernment that implies the participation and involvement of the whole People of God. It seeks to highlight the essentially “relational” (rather than “instrumental”) nature of synodality, which should be understood, not as a tactic aimed at containing the excesses of clericalism, but as a return to the Church’s authentic origins and way of proceeding. In fact, as communion, the Church springs from the initiative of God the Father and, through Christ’s gift of the Holy Spirit, “brings the scattered children of God together and makes them one” (Jn 11:52). It thus responds to its founding, “constituted as an assembly” with the will to walk together as a People. Synodality expresses the very identity of the God of communion and misericordia whom the Church proclaims to the world. Synodality both brings about and shows the correspondence between what the Church is in herself and what she does in the world.
KEYWORDS: Church. Vatican II. Synodality. People of God. Laity. Faithful.
SYNODALITY AS KAIROS IN THE PRESENT ECCLESIAL AND GLOBAL SITUATION
Authors: Faggioli Massimo
Published: May 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, the crisis of the sense of eclesial unity and the global socio-political disruption, together with other factors, make this moment a eukairos akairos – a favorable and at the same time unfavorable moment – for the unfolding of the Synodal Process in the Catholic Church. The article outlines the ecclesial challenges and opportunities for the “Synodal Process 2021-2023”. Synodality is a different way of being the Church, not simply a new way of making decisions in the Church. However, kairos also means a moment of decision, not of waiting for something to happen and be accomplished automatically. For the Christian community, it also means a moment of possible division and refusal, and not of an ecclesial paradise. The synodal process takes place in a moment in which different challenges accumulate.
KEYWORDS: Synodality. Kairos. Pandemic. Globalization.
ESG (ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE)
Authors: Fiorillo Celso Antonio Pacheco
Published: May 2022

Ao adotar a sigla ESG, como uma forma de publicidade de maneira indevida e mesmo ilegal no sentido de tornar possível a venda e entrega de produtos aos consumidores ou outras empresas sem adotar efetivamente as melhores práticas ambientais, sociais e de governança (greenwashing) as empresas, que adotam referidas “táticas”, violam o sistema constitucional bem como as regras estabelecidas pela lei 8078/90 na medida em que usam de publicidade poribida por lei (Art. 37. É proibida toda publicidade enganosa ou abusiva). Referida “tática”, portanto tem balizamento objetivo em nosso País condicionando a atuação das corporações ao que determina o direito empresarial ambiental em vigor.
Integrating Brain-based Learning in the Science Classroom: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bada Abiodun A , Jita Loyiso C
Published: May 2022

Brain-based learning (BBL) has been described as an important pedagogy that can be effectively used to enhance different teaching methods or strategies. It uses essential principles from brain-based theory to alleviate the disadvantages inherent in traditional teaching methods to achieve classroom goals and objectives. The use of such learning has significant implications for the teaching and learning of science (biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics) subjects at elementary and secondary school levels. In this review, we scrutinise and discuss the results from 25 peer-reviewed studies and underline the methodology and strategies used to advance the integration of brain-based learning within science classrooms. We make a meta-analysis systematic review of how such learning has been used in the science classroom, the success achieved, and the different constructs used to integrate it into elementary and secondary schools. The findings reveal that quasi-experimental studies have dominated the methods used in integrating brain-based learning in science classrooms. In addition, this type of learning topped the different constructs used in science classrooms, with its  integration mainly in relation to mathematics. It is concluded that the principles of brain-based learning pedagogy can be adequately used in science classroom instruction because they consider the uniqueness of each student’s brain. This paper therefore recommends appropriate and continuous integration of such learning in the science classroom, especially in subjects where integration is currently low.
Residuos de mármol en materiales para la construcción: una revisión del uso del polvo de mármol en morteros, concretos y ladrillos
Authors: Moreno Armando Nicolás , García Lobato Marco Antonio , Avalos Bemolte Felipe , Múzquiz Ramos Elia Martha
Published: May 2022

Este artículo tiene como objetivo hacer una revisión de los trabajos realizados usando polvo de mármol como sustitución de cemento, arena o agregado fino en concreto, mortero y ladrillos.  Se revisaron investigaciones realizadas en varias partes del mundo con procedimientos experimentales diferentes. Se concluye que el polvo de mármol se puede usar como sustituto parcial de cemento o agregado fino (hasta por un 15 %, dependiendo del material a sustituir), sin afectar la resistencia a compresión de las muestras o las piezas, y sin importar la forma. Por lo tanto, el polvo de mármol no solo ayuda a aminorar la contaminación que genera, sino que también a la reducción de uso como arena y polvillo, aportando al desarrollo sustentable.
Influence of thermal curing in the physical and mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance concrete with glass powder
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda Giannotti da Silva , Vitoretti Dias Lucas , Mari Soares Silvete , Lorenzetti de Castro Alessandra
Published: May 2022

This paper aims to evaluate the impact of thermal curing and the use of particle packing in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) using glass powder as a partial substitution of Portland cement. For this, specimens with 0% and 50% of glass powder (volumetric substitution to cement) were produced, as well as two mixes obtained by particle packing. The samples were submitted to thermal and standard curing to compare the effects. The samples were tested for compression resistance and capillary water absorption. The results indicate that thermal curing provides a high gain of resistance in early ages, the application of particle packing in the mix design resulted in a significant improvement in the concrete properties and the glass powder presented as a viable substitute for cement.
Estudo da ação de agentes de degradação de fachadas associados à temperatura e a chuva dirigida em diferentes zonas bioclimáticas brasileiras
Authors: Ramos Ana Lin , Bauer Elton
Published: May 2022

Logo, objetiva-se investigar as condições de exposição a agentes de degradação em edifícios localizados em diferentes zonas bioclimáticas brasileiras. Estudar a ação do intemperismo é essencial para compreender a degradação das fachadas. Selecionou-se oito cidades representativas de cada Zona: Curitiba, Santa Maria, Florianópolis, Brasília, Niterói, Goiânia, Picos e Belém. Definiu-se um edifício modelo para simulação higrotérmica para avaliação da radiação total, amplitude térmica, choque térmico, índice de intensidade da temperatura e chuva dirigida. Como resultado, são identificadas as zonas de condições críticas, que são classificadas em função de sua gravidade. Para temperatura e chuva dirigida, as cidades mais expostas são Goiânia-GO e Belém-PA, respectivamente. As de exposição mais amenas são Belém-PA para agente de temperatura e Niterói-RJ para chuva dirigida.
Diagnóstico y propuesta de solución a las lesiones presentes en el forjado del Convento de Santa Clara de Asís
Authors: Hernández Oroza Alberto , Diomedes Almeida Ángela , Cuétara Pérez Pedro Ramón , Romeo Sáez Alina
Published: May 2022

El objetivo de este trabajo es diagnosticar y proponer solución a las lesiones presentes en los forjados de madera del Convento de Santa Clara. Para ello, se aplicaron ensayos no destructivos de resistografía y penetrómetro, estudios biológicos a la madera, y técnicas geomáticas para análisis de deformación y dimensionamiento de las vigas. Los resultados del diagnóstico demostraron que el 65% del forjado compuesto de 98 vigas, está afectado por pudrición y organismos xilófagos. Los estudios de densidad mediante comparación con valores de referencia, mostraron pérdida en la dureza de la madera. Los resultados concluyen que la restauración implica la necesidad de sustituir 17 vigas, y el refuerzo de los pies derechos y secciones de vigas de corredera.
Evaluación no destructiva del estado de conservación de las vigas de madera del edificio Narciso López del Centro Histórico de La Habana para reúso en su restauración
Authors: Hernández Oroza Alberto , Berreo Alayo Edrey , Expósito Mendez Raúl
Published: May 2022

El estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar, a través de clasificación visual y ensayos no destructivos, el estado de conservación de 32 vigas de madera para su reúso como proyecto de restauración de un edificio histórico. Para esto se realizaron mediciones del contenido de humedad, penetrómetro, estimación del módulo de elasticidad y tensión de rotura mediante velocidad del pulso ultrasónico. Los resultados mostraron que el 66% de las vigas presentaban afectación por pudrición, desfibramiento y fisuración. Los ensayos realizados a las vigas deterioradas permitieron determinar que, para una confiabilidad del 95%, de las restantes 21 vigas era posible reutilizar 17 de ellas con una densidad promedio de 0.4 g/cm3.
Accountability of Village Fund Allocation Management in Landungsari Village, DAU District, Malang Regency
Authors: Susanti Rizki Aprilia Dwi , Lestari Asih Widi
Published: May 2022

This research aims to determine the accountability of Village Fund Allocation Management which includes: planning, implementation, supervision, and accountability. In this study the method used is a qualitative descriptive. The techniques used are observations of objects that are being traced and through interviews. The results in this study indicated that in the accountability of the management of village funds allocation in Landungsari village, it can be said to be transparent and accountable. The community plays an active role by participating in following development planning deliberations, as well as monitoring the use of village funds allocation in Landungsari directly supervised by a team of the Regional Government Agency.
Bank Competition, Credit Risk, and Foreign Bank Penetration: Empirical Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Nuralyza Olivia , Narsa Niluh Putu Dian Rosalina Handayani , Sriani Dewi
Published: May 2022

This study examines the relationship between bank competition and credit risk with foreign bank penetration as a moderating variable. The research sample used was 79 commercial banks listed in the Indonesian Banking Directory published by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) during the 2014-2019 period with a total of 474 observations. The results of this study indicate that the higher the bank's competition, the higher the bank's credit risk, which is in accordance with the competition-fragility theory. Furthermore, from the results of the Moderated Regression Analysis, the results show that foreign bank penetration has not been able to moderate the relationship between bank competition and bank credit risk, however, if it stands as an independent variable on its own, foreign bank penetration will reduce bank credit risk. The results of this study contribute to providing useful information for parties in the banking industry that increasing foreign bank penetration can reduce bank credit risk.
Effect of COVID-19 on the Performance of Sectoral Indices Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2019-2020
Authors: Puji Lestari Novi , Venus Kusumawardhana
Published: May 2022

This study aims to: (1) examine and analyze the impact of the pandemic on the development of the Capital Market JCI in Indonesia; (2) analyze the influence of the Covid-19 externality on the dynamics of the development of the Capital Market sectoral index in Indonesia. The research uses a case study method with a quantitative analysis approach using sectoral stock index history data with purposive sampling technique. The research population is 9 sectoral indices listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The research period is November 2019-December 2020 which is analyzed using the Chartnexus analysis tool based on the performance of the stock sector index. The results of this study can be used as a reference for potential investors in choosing and investing in stocks that are included in sectoral indices whose market recovery is faster during the pandemic.
Distinct CD8 T cell populations with differential exhaustion profiles associate with secondary complications in common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Klocperk Adam , Friedmann David , Schlaak Alexandra Emilia , Unger Susanne , Parackova Zuzana , Goldacker Sigune , Sediva Anna , Bengsch Bertram , Warnatz Klaus
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most frequent symptomatic primary immunodeficiency, with heterogeneous clinical presentation. Our goal was to analyze CD8 T cell homeostasis in patients with infection only CVID, compared to those additionally affected by dysregulatory and autoimmune phenomena.

Methods

Flow and mass cytometry evaluation of peripheral blood of 40 patients with CVID and 17 healthy donors.

Results

CD8 T cells are skewed in patients with CVID, with loss of naïve and increase of effector memory stages, expansion of cell clusters with high functional exhaustion scores, and a highly activated population of cells with immunoregulatory features, producing IL-10. These findings correlate to clinically widely used B-cell-based EURO classification. Features of exhaustion, including loss of CD127, CD28 and expression of TIGIT and PD-1 in CD8 T cells are strongly associated with interstitial lung disease and autoimmune cytopenias, whereas CD8 T cell activation with elevated HLA-DR and CD38 expression predict non-infectious diarrhea.

Conclusion

We demonstrate features of advanced differentiation, exhaustion, activation and immunoregulatory capabilities within CD8 T cells of CVID patients. Assessment of CD8 T cell phenotype may allow risk-assessment of CVID patients, and provide new insights into CVID pathogenesis, including a better understanding of mechanisms underlying T cell exhaustion and regulation.
Artefact Classification: A Deep Learning Approach to Fight Illicit Trafficking of Antiquities
Authors: Winterbottom Thomas , Leone Anna , Moubayed Noura Al
Published: May 2022

We approach the task of detecting the illicit movement of cultural heritage from a machine learning perspective by presenting a framework for detecting a known artefact in a new and unseen image. To this end, we explore the machine learning problem of instance classification for large archaeological images datasets, i.e. where each individual object (instance) is itself a class that all of the multiple images of that object belongs. We focus on a wide variety of objects in the Durham Oriental Museum with which we build a dataset with over 24,502 images of 4,332 unique object instances. We experiment with state-of-the-art convolutional neural network models, the smaller variations of which are suitable for deployment on mobile applications. We find the exact object instance of a given image can be predicted from among 4,332 others with ∼72% accuracy, showing how effectively machine learning can detect a known object from a new image. We demonstrate that accuracy significantly improves as the number of images-per-object instance increases (up to ∼83%), with an ensemble of classifiers scoring as high as 84%. We find that the correct instance is found in the top 3, 5, or 10 predictions of our best models ∼91%, ∼93%, or ∼95% of the time respectively. Our findings contribute to the emerging overlap of machine learning and cultural heritage, and highlights the potential available to future applications and research.
Word2Vec Word Embedding-Based Artificial Intelligence Model in the Triage of Patients with Suspected Diagnosis of Major Ischemic Stroke: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Zumbo Aurora , Desai Antonio , Giordano Mauro , Morandini Pierandrea , Laino Maria Elena , Azzolini Elena , Fabbri Andrea , Marcheselli Simona , Lucifero Alice Giotta , Luzzi Sabino , Voza Antonio
Published: May 2022

IntroductionThe possible benefits of using semantic language models in the early diagnosis of major ischemic stroke (MIS) based on artificial intelligence (AI) are still underestimated.The present study strives to assay the feasibility of the Word2Vec word embedding-based AI model in decreasing the risk of false-negatives during the triage of patients with suspected MIS in the emergency department (ED).MethodsThe main ICD-9 codes related to MIS were used for a 7-years retrospective data collection of patients managed at the ED with a suspected diagnosis of stroke. Data underwent “tokenization” and “lemmatization”. Word2Vec word embedding AI algorithm was used for text data vectorization and a batch strategy was adopted for model training.The false-negatives were rated from the incorrect attribution of the low-intensity code to patients later diagnosed with MIS. ResultsOut of 649 MIS, the Word2Vec AI algorithm allowed successfully identify 87.69% of them through the recognition of 15 top words, with an area under the curve of 97.2%. The rate of false-negatives related to the implementation of AI model was 0%.ConclusionsWord2Vec word embedding-based AI model is reliable and effective in decreasing the risk of false negatives of MIS during patients’ triage in the ED. Further studies on larger cohorts are required to validate the model.
Heterozygote germline mutations in Homologous Recombination core genes can predict for pathologic complete response in early triple negative breast cancer.
Authors: Fontaine Christel , De Brakeleer Sylvia , Teugels Erik , Renard Vincent , Bulk Heidi Van den , Vuylsteke Peter , Glorieux Philippe , Dopchie Catherine , Joris Sofie , Decoster Lore , Awada Ahmad , Punie Kevin , Wildiers Hans , De Grève Jacques
Published: May 2022

BackgroundBSMO 2014-01 is a published prospective phase 2 study investigating neoadjuvant weekly paclitaxel and carboplatin, followed by epirubicin and cyclophosphamide in 63 patients with triple-negative breast cancer. Pathological complete response (pCR) was observed in 54%. A secondary endpoint of the study was to correlate pCR rate to the presence of germline pathogenic variants in DNA damage response (DDR) genes or in core genes involved in Homologous Recombination (HR).MethodsPeripheral blood from 60 patients was collected for germline DNA analysis. Whole Exome Sequencing was performed; only rare variants (minor allelic frequency < 0.01) in 276 DDR genes were considered. The correlation between pCR rate and DDR or HR deficiency was analyzed using the Fisher's exact test. The same was done for the correlation between DDR gene mutations and the presence of hematologic toxicities. ResultsThirty-five out of 60 patients (58.3%) carried a protein disrupting germline mutation in a DDR gene. Twenty-four of these 35 patients (68.6%) had a pCR, while a pCR was observed in 40% without a DDR mutation (p=0.026). In 14/15 patients (93.3%) with a HR core gene mutation a pCR was obtained, while a pCR was present in 44.4% without a HR core gene mutation (p=0.0007). Eight of nine patients (88.9%) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variant reached a pCR compared to 51% of the BRCA wild-type patients (p=0.035). ConclusionsThis is the first study to demonstrate that germline pathogenic variants in genes involved in HR core genes predicts for pCR after platinum-containing neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
The on-off-on fluorescence sensor of hollow carbon dots for detecting Hg 2+ and ascorbic acid
Authors: Hao Yunping , Li Ronghui , Liu Yanxu , Geng Lina , Chen Shenna
Published: May 2022

Carbon dots (CDs) have excellent fluorescence properties and can be used in many research fields. In this paper, carbon dots were prepared by microwave-assisted pyrolysis of citric acid and urea, characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), 13C-NMR spectrum, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption and fluorescence spectra, and detected the Hg2+ and ascorbic acid (AA) sequentially. It showed that carbon dots were hollow, spherical particles and less than 10 nm, photoluminescence quantum yield of carbon dots was about 15%. The CDs were selective and sensitive to Hg2+ and AA based on the “on-off-on” fluorescence behavior. The detection limits of CDs for Hg2+ and AA were 0.138 µM and 0.212 µM, respectively. Fluorescence response mechanism of CDs was also discussed.
Assessment of effects of natural and anthropogenic drivers on extreme flood events in coastal regions
Authors: Zhang Wenting , Liu Yongzhi , Tang Wenwen , Wang Wen , Liu Zhu
Published: May 2022

With climate change leading to sea level rise and the frequent occurrence of extreme weather events, extreme flood disasters occur frequently in coastal cities, especially under the combined influence of heavy rainfall, fluvial floods, and storm surges. Compound floods from multiple sources are prone to superimposing effects, greatly aggravating the flooding. In addition, the influence of anthropogenic activities such as man-made flood control projects in coastal regions also need exploring. With Ling River Basin in the eastern coastal area of China as the case study, this study investigated the impacts of natural and human drivers on the spatio-temporal distribution of extreme floods based on a 1D- 2D coupled hydrodynamic model. The hydrodynamic model was calibrated and validated based on historical flood events, then validated model was further used to reproduce the devastating flooding of Typhoon Lekima in 2019. Results show that the model has great capability and accuracy in simulating both the flood occurrence process and its inundation extent under natural and anthropogenic influence. It also indicates that the huge amount of discharge from the upper reaches of the Ling River was the main driver that caused the catastrophic consequences. Comparatively, the failure of flood protection measures (FPM), which was a human driver, aggravated the influence of floods in local regions. By assessing the individual and superimposed effects of natural and human drivers on flooding is helpful to enhance the resilience of flooded coastal areas.
Clinical Management of Metastatic Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-negative Breast Cancer (MBC) After CDK 4/6 inhibitors: A Retrospective Single-Institution Study
Authors: Choong Grace , Liddell Savannah , Leon-Ferre Roberto A. , O’Sullivan Ciara C. , Ruddy Kathryn J. , Haddad Tufia C. , Hobday Timothy J. , Peethambaram Prema P. , Liu Minetta C. , Goetz Matthew P. , Giridhar Karthik V.
Published: May 2022

Purpose
Cyclin dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6is), in combination with endocrine therapy (ET), are standard either in the first (1L) or second line (2L) setting for the treatment of hormone receptor (HR) positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer (MBC). However, the optimal sequencing of treatments after progression on CDK4/6i remains unknown. We performed a single institution analysis to identify treatments and outcomes after progression on a CDK4/6i.
Methods
We identified patients with HR-positive, HER2-negative MBC prescribed a CDK4/6i in the 1L or 2L settings from December 2014-February 2018 at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Outcomes were collected through September 30, 2020.
Results
Palbociclib, in combination with letrozole or fulvestrant, was the most prescribed CDK4/6i. The 1L and 2L CDK4/6i cohorts exhibited comparable overall survival (OS), but progression free survival (PFS) was longer in the 1L than the 2L cohort [28.2 months (95% CI 19.6–34.9) vs 19.8 months (95% CI 15.7–29.6)]. The most common post-CDK4/6i treatments were PI3K/mTOR inhibitors (PI3K/mTORi), single agent ET, or chemotherapy. PFS in the 1L CDK4/6i cohort following PI3K/mTORi was 8.5 months (95% CI 5.5 months – NE), single-agent ET was 6.0 months (95% CI 3.3–14.0 months), and chemotherapy PFS was 5.4 months (95% CI 3.3 months- NE).
Conclusions
Following progression on a CDK 4/6i, mPFS was short, with similar PFS times comparing chemotherapy and ET, with slightly longer PFS for targeted strategies (PI3K/mTOR). These results highlight a major need to better understand the mechanisms of CDK4/6i resistance and identify new therapeutic strategies for these patients.
Outcome of Coronary Edge In-Stent Restenosis management by re-stenting versus Drug Eluting Balloon
Authors: Metwally Yasser G. , Elnady Khaled Y. , El-Ghaffar Tarek Abd , Seddik Eman Hesham , Shaker Ahmed
Published: May 2022

Background: The optimal therapeutic strategy for coronary intervention in edge instent restenosis remains less well defined.Aim: To assess 12 months outcome of the Drug–eluting stent Versus Drug-Eluting balloon for managing coronary Edge In-stent restenosis. Methods:75 patients referred for coronary intervention with edge instent restenosis (edge ISR) were randomly assigned to either Drug eluting stent (DES)or Drug eluting balloon (DEB). The primary endpoint was target vessel revascularization (TVR) at 12 months follow up.Results: significantly lower TVR among the DEB group (0% versus 12.5%, P=0.048). Likewise, Target vessel related myocardial infarction rate was significantly lower among the DEB group (23.1 % versus 1.8 %, P< 0.05). On the other hand; there were no significant differences in the rates of deaths or restenosis between the two groups.Conclusion: The Drug eluting balloon is superior to the Drug eluting stent in management of edge restenosis with better both safety and efficacy.
Nepafenac Drop Reduces Ocular Pain Associated with Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implant
Authors: Ozcimen Muammer , Yener Halil.I
Published: May 2022

Purpose: To assess the effects of nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.1% for the control of pain experienced after dexamethasone intravitreal implant (Ozurdex) injections.Methods: This randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled study included 68 adults receiving Ozurdex injection. Patients were randomly assigned to receive nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.1% or balanced salt solution placebo. They were asked to assess the level of pain using a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, at 1, 6 and 24 hours following the injection. Results: At 1 hour after the injection, there was a course toward less pain scores in the nepafenac group; however, statistical significance was not reached. At 6 and 24 hours, the nepafenac group had significantly lower pain scores than those receiving placebo.Conclusion: Nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.1% is effective in reducing pain experienced after Ozurdex injections.
In silico pipeline to identify tumor-specific antigens associated with frequent HLA-I alleles in the Costa Rican Central Valley Population
Authors: Morazán-Fernández Diego , Mora Javier , Molina-Mora Jose Arturo
Published: May 2022

Colorectal cancer is a complex disease in which uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells occurs in the large intestine (colon or rectum). The study of tumor-specific antigens (neoantigens), molecules that interact with the immune system, has been extensively explored as a possible therapy called in silico cancer vaccine. Cancer vaccine studies have been triggered by the current high-throughput DNA sequencing technologies. However, there is no universal bioinformatic protocol to study tumor-antigens with DNA sequencing data. We propose a bioinformatic protocol to detect tumor-specific antigens associated with single nucleotide variants (SNVs) or “mutations” in colorectal cancer and their interaction with frequent HLA alleles (complex that present antigens to immune cells) in the Costa Rican Central Valley population. We used public data of human exome (DNA regions that produce functional products, including proteins). A variant calling analysis was implemented to detect tumor-specific SNVs, in comparison to healthy tissue. We then predicted and analyzed the peptides (protein fragments, the tumor-specific antigens) derived from these variants, in the context of their affinity with frequent alleles of HLA type I in the Costa Rican population. We found 28 non-silent SNVs, present in 26 genes. The protocol yielded 23 strong binders peptides derived from the SNVs for frequent alleles (greater than 8%) for the Costa Rican population at the HLA-A, B, and C loci. It is concluded that the standardized protocol was able to identify neoantigens and this can be considered a first step for the eventual design of a colorectal cancer vaccine for Costa Rican patients. To our knowledge, this is the first study of an in silico cancer vaccine using DNA sequencing data in the context of the Costa Rican HLA alleles.
Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein on retrieved thrombi from COVID-19 patients
Authors: De Michele Manuela , d'Amati Giulia , Leopizzi Martina , Iacobucci Marta , Berto Irene , Lorenzano Svetlana , Mazzuti Laura , Turriziani Ombretta , Schiavo Oscar G. , Toni Danilo
Published: May 2022

The pathophysiology of COVID-19-associated coagulopathy is complex and not fully understood. SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) may activate platelets and interacts with fibrin(ogen). We aimed to investigate the possible evidence of isolated SP in clots retrieved in COVID-19 patients with acute ischemic stroke (by mechanical thrombectomy) and myocardial infarction. In this pilot study we could detect SP, but not nucleocapsid protein, on platelets of COVID-19 + patients’ thrombi. In addition, in all the three COVID-19 + thrombi analyzed for molecular biology, no SARS-CoV-2 RNA could be detected by real time-polymerase chain reaction. These data confirm the hypothesis that free SP besides the whole virus, may be the trigger of platelet activation and clot formation in COVID-19.
Increased serum IL-6 is predictive of long-term cardiovascular events in high-risk patients submitted to coronary angiography: an observational study
Authors: Mossmann Márcio , Wainstein Marco Vugman , Mariani Stéfani , Machado Guilherme Pinheiro , Araújo Gustavo Neves , Andrades Michael , Gonçalves Sandro Cadaval , Bertoluci Marcello Casaccia
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an inflammation-related cytokine associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular events. In a previous study, we demonstrated that increased IL-6 was predictive of sub-clinical atherosclerotic coronary disease in intermediate-risk patients undergoing coronary angiography. In the present study, we investigated whether increased serum IL-6 is predictive of cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.
METHODS
In this observational study, consecutive patients referred for elective coronary angiography due to stable chest pain/myocardial ischemia had IL-6 measured immediately before the procedure. Long-term follow-up was performed by phone call or e-mail, and their clinical registries were revised. The primary outcome was a composite of new myocardial infarction, new ischemic stroke, hospitalization due to heart failure, new coronary revascularization, cardiovascular death, and death due to all causes.
RESULTS
From the 141 patients submitted to coronary angiography and IL-6 analysis, 100 had complete follow-up data for a mean of 5.7 years. The median age was 61.1 years, 44% were men, and 61% had type-2 diabetes. The median overall time-to-event for the primary outcome was 297 weeks (95% confidence interval [CI] = 266.95–327.16). A receiver operator characteristic curve defined the best cut-off value of baseline serum IL-6 (0.44 pg/mL) with sensitivity (84.37%) and specificity (38.24%) to define two groups. High (> 0.44 pg/mL) IL-6 levels were predictive of cardiovascular events. (p for interaction = 0.015) (hazard ratio = 2.81; 95% CI = 1.38–5.72, p = 0.01). The subgroup analysis did not find interactions between patients with or without diabetes, obesity, or hypertension.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, levels of interleukin-6 higher than 0.44 pg/mL obtained just before the coronary angiography for elective reasons were associated with a poorer prognosis after a mean of 5,7-year. A pre-procedure IL-6 below 0.44 pg/ml, on the other hand, has a very good negative predictive value, indicates a good prognosis, and may be useful to better indicate coronary angiography in high-risk patients.
Sars-Cov-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant outbreak: case series presentations and response to treatment at the Islamic University in Uganda health facility
Authors: Rashid Naziru
Published: May 2022

The object of research: The study, investigated the clinical presentations of patients who tested Positive for Covid-19 (Omicron Variant), their response to treatment, and the levels of transmissibility of the infection.

Investigated problem: As the globe, continent, and nation are struggling with the emergency of the new COVID-19 omicron Virant outbreak there’s not much information known about the behavior of this new threat to enable clinicians, and public health specialists, and policymakers to curb the problem.

The main scientific results: The study found that headache, cough, fevers and, general body weakness was the commonest presenting complaints, 3 of the cases reported difficulties in breathing. None of the cases required admission. There was no difference in the severity of the illness and the response to treatment between the vaccinated and the non-vaccinated cases. Cases that did steaming as an adjuvant/supplementary treatment reported a shorter duration of symptomatic relief than those that did not.

The area of practical use of the research results: The findings will act as a practical guide to clinicians, public health specialists, and policymakers in the management of the COVID-19 Omicron Variant.

Innovative technological product: The use of steaming as an adjuvant to symptomatic relief management of respiratory tract infections.

Scope of the innovative technological product: Omicron Variant produces a less severe illness than earlier variants of COVID-19. The study also reveals that vaccination alone was not effective in the prevention of contraction of the Omicron Variant and other newer variants. However, vaccination may have been advantageous in protecting the cases from progressing to severe disease. Thus, other IPCs measures must be maintained and booster doses of COVID-19 vaccinations should be encouraged. Large-scale on the effectiveness of steaming and other locally made remedies for symptomatic management of respiratory tract infections should be done.
Glass as a State of Matter—The “newer” Glass Families from Organic, Metallic, Ionic to Non-silicate Oxide and Non-oxide Glasses
Authors: Möncke Doris , Topper Brian , Clare Alexis G.
Published: May 2022

OVERVIEW

In theory, any molten material can form a glass when quenched fast enough. Most natural glasses are based on silicates and for thousands of years only alkali/alkaline earth silicate and lead-silicate glasses were prepared by humankind. After exploratory glass experiments by Lomonosov (18th ct) and Harcourt (19th ct), who introduced 20 more elements into glasses, it was Otto Schott who, in the years 1879–1881, melted his way through the periodic table of the elements so that Ernst Abbe could study all types of borate and phosphate glasses for their optical properties. This research also led to the development of the laboratory ware, low alkali borosilicate glasses. Today, not only can the glass former silicate be replaced, partially or fully, by other glass formers such as oxides of boron, phosphorous, tellurium or antimony, but also the oxygen anions can be substituted by fluorine or nitrogen. Chalcogens, the heavier ions in the group of oxygen in the periodic table (S, Se, Te), on their own or when paired with arsenic or germanium, can function as glass formers. Sulfate, nitrate, tungstate and acetate glasses lack the conventional anion and cation classification, as do metallic or organic glasses. The latter can occur naturally—amber predates anthropogenic glass manufacture by more than 200 million years.

In this chapter, we are going to provide an overview of the different glass families, how the structure and properties of these different glass types differ from silicate glasses but also what similarities are dictated by the glassy state. Applications and technological aspects are discussed briefly for each glass family.
Editorial
Authors: De Castro Biane , Izoton Monique , Semensatto Simone
Published: May 2022

A Revista Eletrônica Científica da Uergs (RevUergs), no caminho de seu reconhecimento pela comunidade científica, acaba de ser indexada às bases internacionais Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) e Red Iberoamericana de Innovación y Conocimiento Científico (REDIB). Ser indexado em diretórios e plataformas internacionais como essas significa que o periódico atingiu altos níveis de qualidade de seus serviços e de serviços de publicação para autores e usuários. Para atingir esses níveis, foram necessárias algumas adaptações e mudanças no site e na versão final dos artigos. Em 2022, ano em que a Revista estará completando sete anos de existência, celebramos essas duas indexações e também as modificações no regulamento que institui a Revista Eletrônica da Universidade do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. A Resolução Consun Nº 012/2015 foi revogada e substituída pela Resolução Conepe Nº 027/2021, que regulamenta a Revista Eletrônica Científica da Uergs, de 16 de dezembro de 2021. A nova resolução reflete a atual organização funcional, tanto da equipe editorial quanto das características da publicação. Também se encontra disponível na página da Revista a nova edição do manual do periódico, intitulado: “Orientações aos editores da Revista Eletrônica Científica da Uergs”.
Instrumento para avaliação de práticas, culturas e políticas inclusivas em contextos universitários
Authors: Louzada Juliana Cavalcante de Andrade , Martins Sandra Eli Sartoreto de Oliveira
Published: May 2022

A presença de pessoas com deficiência no ensino superior acena políticas afirmativas em defesa de uma universidade acessível a todos. Convoca ainda, distintos membros da comunidade acadêmica a reduzir as desigualdades no acesso e participação na Educação Superior, à coletivos populacionais, em situação de vulnerabilidade social, econômica e educacional, dos quais se inserem as pessoas com deficiências. Posto isso, este trabalho descreve a preparação do instrumento de pesquisa para identificar políticas, culturas e práticas inclusivas em contextos universitários. Trata-se do Índice de Inclusão para Educação Superior (INES), traduzido e adaptado para uso em ambientes socioeducativos universitários distintos. Os resultados indicaram ajustes no instrumento original sendo, portanto, adaptado ao contexto universitário brasileiro. Sua aplicabilidade reafirma o compromisso institucional da comunidade acadêmica para uma mirada social, crítica e transformadora dos processos de formativos na Educação Superior.
Violências verbais nas relações professor-aluno
Authors: Luiz Maria Cecília , Morito Jéssica Veloso
Published: May 2022

Este artigo teve como objetivo compreender como as situações de violência ocorrem nas relações professor-aluno, na visão de estudantes do Ensino Fundamental (ciclo II), em uma escola de ensino integral. Como metodologia desenvolveu-se uma pesquisa-intervenção, com ateliês utilizando a arte para ouvir e compreender as relações em sala de aula. Com as análises percebeu-se que o reconhecimento social foi essencial e propiciou à escola a função de socializar as relações em seu cotidiano, com formação cidadã e democrática; a forma autoritária de alguns docentes propiciou conflitos geracionais, pois não levou em consideração a ampla conexão de diferentes estudantes e suas diferenças; o autoritarismo na escola intensificava as violências simbólicas, estabelecendo tensões nos discentes humilhados e, por vezes, violentos; por fim, na paisagem sonora escolar e nos tipos de situação que ocorrem em seus espaços coletivos percebeu-se um potencial de transformações nas relações, encarando os conflitos sociais como positivos.