bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geo-Environmental and Geotechnical Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste from the Selective Collection in São Paulo City, Brazil
Authors: Mondelli Giulliana , Juarez Mariana Barbosa , Jacinto Christiane , de Oliveira Márcio Adilson , de Coelho Lúcia Helena Gomes , Biancardi Cinthia Bergamo , Faria José Leonardo de Castro
Published: December 2021

This paper presents the characterization of municipal solid waste (MSW) randomly collected from two Material Recovery Facilities in São Paulo city, before (input - recyclables) and after (output - rejects) the sorting processes. Geo-environmental and geotechnical tests were performed on shredded samples and a digestion method was applied to detect the metals As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn concentrations using ICP OES. The objective was to assist future activities of integrated solid waste management and soil pollution. Results showed different particle sizes comparing the input (44.6%) and the output MSW (75.1%) passing through the 100 mm sieve. Organic matter and ash contents indicated the influence of inorganic carbon due to plastics' presence, with values varying between 6-13%. The pH values obtained were neutral and the electrical conductivity of the MSW rejects suggested a higher amount of ions, with values above 1000 µS/cm. Metals analyses show that Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn are present in high concentrations, depending on the types of the materials. Standard Proctor compaction curves yielded maximum dry unit weight varying from 6.6 kN/m³ to 10.0 kN/m³ and optimum moisture contents from 20–42%. Cohesion ranged from 1.3 kPa to 31.3 kPa and friction angle from 3.2° and 42.9°. The results are comparable with those obtained for other countries using different MSW treatments and contribute to the data basis for MSW from the selective collection, aiming the integrated solid waste management, serving for other countries that adopt MSW sorting and recycling.
Correlating the patterns of Diabetic macular edema, Optical Coherence Tomography Biomarkers and Grade of Diabetic Retinopathy With Stage of Renal Disease
Authors: Agarwal Manisha , Sachdeva Mani , Shah Shalin , Raman Rajiv , Rani Padmaja Kumari , Rajalakshmi Ramachandran , Sivaprasad Sobha , Vignesh T.P. , Ramasamy Kim , Madharia Aishwarya , Sen Alok , Sugumar Shalini , Behera Umesh Chandra , Rodrigues Ann Maria , Anantharaman Giridhar , Priya Swathi , Majumdar Atanu
Published: December 2021

PurposeTo correlate Optical coherence tomography (OCT) based morphological patterns of diabetic macular edema (DME), prognostic biomarkers and grade of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in patients with various stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) secondary to diabetes. DesignMulticentric retrospective cross-sectional study conducted at seven centres across India.MethodsData from medical records of patients with DME and CKD was entered in a common excel sheet across all seven centers. Staging of CKD was based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). ResultsThe most common morphological pattern of DME was cystoid pattern (42%) followed by the mixed pattern (31%). The proportion of different morphological patterns did not significantly vary across various CKD stages (p=0.836). Presence of external limiting membrane-ellipsoid zone (ELM-EZ) defects (p<0.001) and foveal sub-field thickness (p=0.024) showed a direct correlation with the stage of CKD which was statistically significant. Presence of hyper reflective dots (HRD) and disorganization of inner retinal layers (DRIL) showed no significant correlation with the stage of CKD. Sight threatening DR was found to increase from 70% in CKD stage-3 to 82% in stage-4 and 5 of CKD and this was statistically significant (p=0.03).ConclusionsCystoid morphological pattern followed by mixed type was the most common pattern of DME on OCT found in patients suffering from stage 3 to 5 of CKD. However, the morphological patterns of DME did not significantly vary across various CKD stages. ELM-EZ defects may be considered as an important OCT biomarker for advanced stage of CKD.
Effects of Orthoptic Therapy in Children with Intermittent Exotropia After Surgery: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Xu Meiping , Zheng Fuhao , Peng Tingting , Wang Chunxiao , Lou Jiangtao , Yu Huanyun , Wang Yuwen , Yu Xinping
Published: December 2021

Background
Intermittent exotropia (IXT) is the most common type of exotropia in China. Surgery is usually required to align the eye deviation to maintain or obtain better binocular visual function. However, there is a high rate of exodrift or recurrence in surgically treated patients. Orthoptic therapy is sometimes recommended for IXT patients after surgery. However, there is a lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials to prove that orthoptic therapy could be an effective supplement to surgical treatment for IXT patients. This study was designed to confirm such an application. This report describes the design and methodology of the Intermittent Exotropia Post-operative Treatment Clinical Trial, which is the first large-sample, blank-controlled, randomized clinical trial.
Methods
A total of 136 IXT patients (aged 7 to 17 years) will be enrolled and assigned to the orthoptic therapy group or blank control group according to a simple randomization scheme. Patients in the orthoptic therapy group will receive at least 2 months of orthoptic therapy, such as anti-suppression, vergence, and accommodation training. Patients in the blank control group will receive only refractive correction. All enrolled patients will need regular follow-up observation until 2 years after surgery. The primary outcome will be the proportion of participants meeting suboptimal surgical outcomes in this 2-year follow-up, which is defined as (1) exodeviation of 10 prism diopters (PD) at distance or near using the simultaneous prism and cover test (SPCT) or (2) loss of 2 or more octaves of stereoacuity from baseline, at any masked follow-up visit examination. The secondary outcomes will be the exodeviation at distance and near using the simultaneous prism and alternate cover test (PACT), magnitude of fusional convergence, stereoacuity, and accommodation. Measurements will be taken at baseline and at the 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-month follow-ups.
Discussion
To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first prospective, randomized controlled study of binocular training in IXT patients after surgery. The aim of this work is to confirm the efficacy of orthoptic therapy in reducing the proportion of recurrence among IXT patients after surgery and improving binocular vision function.
Trial registration:
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1900026891. Registered on 25 October 2019.
Digitales Lehren und Lernen im Corona-Semester aus der Sicht von Bachelor- und Masterstudierenden
Authors: Kögler Kristina , Ștefănică Florina , Sälzer Christine , Behrendt Stefan , Scherfer Marlene , Atlihan Suemeyye
Published: December 2021

Die pandemiebedingte, kurzfristige Umstellung der Hochschullehre auf ausschliesslich digitale Veranstaltungsangebote stellte Lehrende und Studierende im Frühjahr 2020 vor grosse Herausforderungen. Unter enormem Zeitdruck mussten bewährte Präsenzlehrformate transformiert und für Lehrende wie Studierende organisationale Unterstützungssysteme etabliert werden. Dieser forcierte Digitalisierungsprozess beinhaltet für hiesige Hochschulen die Chance, die Weiterentwicklung der Lehre agil und evidenzbasiert voranzutreiben und dabei nicht zuletzt auch die Herausforderungen und Grenzen digitalen Lernens zu identifizieren. Nachhaltige Digitalisierungsstrategien sollten ganzheitlich und mehrperspektivisch sein, hier bietet insbesondere der Einbezug der Perspektive von Studierenden wichtige Einsichten für den Digitalisierungsprozess und die Qualitätsentwicklung der Hochschullehre. Diesem Beitrag liegen die Fragen zugrunde, wie Studierende die Rahmenbedingungen, Qualität und Effekte der digitalen Hochschullehre im ersten Corona-Semester 2020 bewerten und mit welchen spezifischen Herausforderungen sie sich konfrontiert sehen. Erkenntnisse dazu wurden an der Universität Stuttgart im Rahmen einer Fragebogenerhebung in drei Wellen gewonnen. Es zeigt sich etwa, dass die Strukturierung der Arbeit zuhause vielen Studierenden schwerfällt und die gefühlte Arbeitsbelastung gestiegen ist. Besonders Bachelorstudierende wünschen sich mehr Unterstützung bei der Vorbereitung auf Prüfungen und der Koordination von Lerngruppen. Neben der Ableitung von konkreten Optimierungsempfehlungen stehen insbesondere die Konsequenzen im Fokus, die sich für die strategische Qualitätsentwicklung der Hochschullehre und den weiteren Digitalisierungsprozess ergeben.
Floral Aromatics of Ptelea: Chemical Identification and Human Response
Authors: Talcott Stewart Anna J. , Boylston Terri , Wilson Lester , Graves William R.
Published: December 2021

Many members of the citrus family (Rutaceae) are valued for the aromatic compounds emitted by their flowers. Ptelea species are unusually cold-hardy members of the Rutaceae, but conflicting descriptions of the fragrance of their unisexual flowers may discourage the use of these trees. We analyzed floral volatiles and human response to these chemicals to test the hypothesis that the fragrance of staminate and pistillate flowers of these species differs. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry showed that most volatile chemicals emitted by flowers of Ptelea trifoliata and Ptelea crenulata are monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and esters. Most volatiles were emitted from flowers of both sexes, but ethyl benzoate and estragole were emitted only from pistillate flowers. When concentrations of aromatics differed between sexes, they were higher for pistillate flowers, except for cis-3-hexenyl butanoate and an unidentified terpene. For P. crenulata and P. trifoliata, respectively, 81% and 77% of survey responses were from volunteers who liked the fragrance. Panelists most frequently described the scent of flowers of P. crenulata of both sexes with the words citrus, lime, and sweet. Panelists distinguished between pistillate and staminate flowers of P. trifoliata, describing the odor of pistillate flowers most frequently with the words damp-earthy, spicy, and sweet; staminate flowers were perceived as light, fresh, grassy, and pleasant. This work represents the first analysis of floral volatiles of P. crenulata and resolves conflicting prior reports regarding the floral fragrance of P. trifoliata. We conclude that differences among people rather than the sex of flowers account for conflicting prior reports of floral fragrance. The scents of flowers of P. crenulata and P. trifoliata appeal to most people and are horticultural assets of these trees.
Immunohistochemical features of gastrointestinal stromal tumors and their role for differential diagnosis and prognosis
Authors: Miroshnichenko Yana
Published: December 2021

The aim. To clarify all most important immunohistochemical features of gastrointestinal stromal tumors with different histological patterns and analyze the role of expression of Ki-67, MMP-9, VEGF and p16ink4A as a predictive markers of tumor progression.

Materials and methods. The study is based on analysis of 100 primary GISTs for description of their morphological features and 36 GISTs taken from this 100 for study of prognostic markers.

Results. All spindle cell GISTs have shown diffuse expression of CD117 in tumor cells. The levels of CD117 expression varied from strong expression (3+) until mild expression (1+). Strong expression were seen in 75,8 % of spindle cell GISTs. Epithelioid GISTs demonstrated heterognous moderate or mild expression of CD117. All primary epithelioid GISTs from patients that had relapse of tumor in period from 1 till 3 years demonstrated focal mild expression of CD 117 in tumor cells. Expression of DOG-1 were seen in all 100 cases of GISTs, that were included in our study. The strong expression of DOG-1 (3+) were seen in all 45 GISTs that had low mitotic rate (≤5 mitoses per 50HPF) and not associated with their histological pattern. GISTs with high mitotic rate demonstrated heterogeneous expression of DOG-1 in tumors: moderate expression (2+) with patchy areas of strong expression (3+). Expression of CD56 was not found in spindle cell GISTs, but single tumor cells of epithelioid GISTs that had high mitotic rate demonstrated expression of this marker. The average expression of p16ink4A were higher in tumors that gave relapses compared with tumors without relapses (50,3 % versus 5,7 % respectively, U-test=16.5; p≤0,01).The average expression of MMP-9 also were significantly higher in GISTs that gave relapses: 63,2 % compared with 13,4 % in GISTs without relapse (U-test=16; p≤0 ,01).The strong VEGF expression was found in 66,7 % of GISTs that had relapses and only in 8,3 % of GISTs without relapses. 50 % of GISTs without relapses was negative for VEGF. Finally, the average expression of Ki-67 were 13,4 % in GISTs with relapses and 8,7 % in GISTs without them (U-test=16; p≤0,01).

Conclusion. We highly recommend using DOG-1 for epithelioid GISTs. Additionally in epithelioid GISTs can be used CD56 that can give focal positive reaction in some tumour cells. The following minimal panel of markers for differential diagnosis of spindled GISTs from other mesenchymal tumors of gastrointestinal tract is proposed: CD117, DOG-1 and SMA, where the first too markers will demonstrated the moderate or strong diffuse expression and SMA can be occasionally positive in some tumor cells. p16ink4A, ki-67, VEGF and MMP-9 can be used as additional prognostic markers in GISTs.
Endovascular interventions in patients with multilevel steno-occlusive lesions of the infrarenal aortic arteries
Authors: Shaprynskyi Vasyl , Shaprynskyi Volodymyr , Suleimanova Vasylysa
Published: December 2021

Peripheral artery diseases are a worldwide medical and social problem. Approximately 30 % of patients with critical limb ischemia will undergo amputations and 25 % will die after 1 year. These patients require reconstructive and angioplastic interventions to preserve the limb.

The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of different endovascular surgical technologies in patients with multilevel steno-occlusive lesions of the infrarenal aortic arteries.

Materials and methods. Among 243 endovascular interventions, 51 patients were presented with multilevel steno-occlusive lesions of the infrarenal aortic arteries as a result of atherosclerosis obliterans. 42 patients (82.4 %) had two-level lesions and 9 (17.6 %) had three-level lesions.

Results. Among 42 patients with a two-level lesion, 29 (56.9 %) ones had femoral arterial segment affection in combination with tibial artery affection. 13 (25.5 %) patients suffered from the lesion of the iliac segment in combination with the affection of the femoral segment arteries. In 9 (17.6 %) patients the lesions of three or more levels were determined: an iliac segment in combination with femoral and popliteal arteries – in 4 patients, and in 2 patients there were lesions of the femoral, popliteal and tibial segments, in 3 patients there was a lesion of the iliac, femoral, popliteal and tibial-foot segments in different degrees of severity.

7 balloon angioplasties and 13 stenting procedures were performed in two and three-level lesions in which the iliac arterial segment was affected. Only balloon angioplasty was used to revascularize the infraingvinal arterial segments. In the early postoperative period, the complications included thrombosis appeared in 6 patients. It was possible to restore the blood flow and save the limb only in 3 persons. For the other 3 ones, the attempts to restore the patency of the arteries were unsuccessful and resulted in the amputation of the lower extremity. Mortality in the early postoperative period was 3.9 % (2 death due to myocardial infarction).

Conclusions. The persons with multilevel steno-obstructive lesions of the infrarenal aortic arteries are the most difficult category of patients with CLI. The surgical method of choice for patients with multilevel steno-occlusive lesions is the endovascular angioplasty with or without stenting.
A Case of Solitary Metastatic Deposit in the Orbital Rim from Follicular Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Jeon Gyeong Hwa , Oh Hyeon Seok , Choi In Ho , Byeon Hyung Kwon
Published: December 2021

Follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) is the second most common thyroid cancer, following papillary carcinoma. Metastasis to the orbital rim from FTC is very rare. We recently experienced a case of FTC with metastasis to the orbital rim in a 74-year-old woman, who initially presented with a huge thyroid mass and an asymptomatic solitary orbital rim lesion. The solitary orbital rim lesion was suspected to be a separate disease entity such as lymphoma from the preoperative imaging, but bone metastasis from FTC was finally confirmed after orbital rim resection and total thyroidectomy. During follow-up, the patient presented multiple bone metastasis, so the solitary orbital rim lesion was considered a clinical sign of systemic metastasis from FTC. Therefore, we present this unique case with a review of the literature.
A Case of Lymphoepithelial Carcinoma Originating in the Submandibular Gland
Authors: Kim Sun Hong , Kim Geun Jeon , Shin Hyun Il , Sun Dong Il
Published: December 2021

Lymphoepithelial carcinoma is an extremely rare malignant tumor, especially those localized at the head and neck region. The histological prototype of lymphoepithelial carcinoma is undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Herein, we report a case of a tumor localized in the left submandibular gland in a 20-year-old male. The tumor mass was surgically excised with the submandibular gland, and the specimen was pathologically confirmed to be lymphoepithelial carcinoma.
Enhanced biodegradation of ciprofloxacin by enriched nitrifying sludge: assessment of removal pathways and microbial responses
Authors: Li Shengjun , Xu Yifeng , Liang Chuanzhou , Wang Ning , Song Shaoxian , Peng Lai
Published: December 2021

Antibiotics are mostly collected by sewage systems, but not completely removed within wastewater treatment plants. Their release to aquatic environment poses a great threat to public health. This study evaluated the removal of a widely used fluoroquinolone antibiotic, ciprofloxacin, in enriched nitrifying culture through a series of experiments by controlling ammonium concentrations and inhibiting functional microorganisms. The removal efficiency of ciprofloxacin at an initial concentration of 50 μg L−1 reached 81.86 ± 3.21% in the presence of ammonium, while only 22.83 ± 8.22% of ciprofloxacin was removed in its absence. A positive linear correlation was found between the ammonia oxidation rate (AOR) and ciprofloxacin biodegradation rate. These jointly confirmed the importance of the AOB-induced cometabolism in ciprofloxacin biodegradation, with adsorption and metabolic degradation pathways playing minor roles. The continuous exposure of AOB to ciprofloxacin led to decreases of ammonia monooxygenase (AMO) activities and AOR. The antibacterial effects of ciprofloxacin and its biodegradation products were further evaluated and the results revealed that biodegradation products of ciprofloxacin exhibited less toxicity compared to the parent compound, implying the potential application of cometabolism in alleviation of antimicrobial activity. The findings provided new insights into the AOB-induced cometabolic biodegradation of fluoroquinolone antibiotics.
A ACUMULAÇÃO ILÍCITA DE CARGOS NA ADMINISTRAÇÃO PÚBLICA E A INCIDÊNCIA DA LEI DE IMPROBIDADE
Authors: UFRN PPGD
Published: December 2021

A Constituição Federal de 1988, em regra, proíbe a acumulação remunerada de cargos públicos. Há, entretanto, um rol esparso e taxativo de situações nas quais tal acúmulo é permitido, como nas hipóteses previstas no artigo 37, XVI, todas condicionadas à regra da compatibilidade de horários. A vedação à prática se baseia na justificativa de que a acumulação comprometeria a eficiência na administração pública, que, vale destacar, se apresenta como princípio constitucional orientador daquele âmbito. A Lei nº 8.112/90, lei que institui o Regime Jurídico dos Servidores Públicos Civis da União, das autarquias, inclusive as em regime especial, e das fundações públicas federais, em seu artigo 133, prevê, contudo, o direito de o servidor optar, em 10 (dez) dias, por um dos vínculos, caracterizando sua boa fé e afastando a incidência da lei de improbidade, ocasionando, porém, certa impunidade.
A GARANTIA CONSTITUCIONAL DO CONTRADITÓRIO NO NOVO CÓDIGO DE PROCESSO CIVIL
Authors: UFRN PPGD
Published: December 2021

O presente artigo examina a garantia constitucional do contraditório, tal como restou conformada no âmbito do novo Código de Processo Civil brasileiro, perpassando, como antecedente necessário, pela análise dos escopos principais que animaram a atuação reformadora do legislador em face do estatuto instrumental civil de 1973. Expor-se-á, em seguida, acerca dos contornos teóricos até então atribuídos ao referido princípio constitucional na seara cível, descrevendo, por fim, não sem a emissão de um juízo crítico decorrente das primeiras impressões que o tema suscita, as alterações mais relevantes e substanciais implementadas pela Lei nº 13.105/15, ao instituir o contraditório dinâmico, como garantia de influência e não surpresa, no novel sistema processual.
O NACIONALISMO DE ALBERTO TORRES E OLIVEIRA VIANA NA CONSTRUÇÃO DO PENSAMENTO CONSTITUCIONAL BRASILEIRO
Authors: Santos Guilherme Miraldi da Silva , Oliveira Sérgio Silveira de
Published: December 2021

Busca-se estudar e questionar, no presente trabalho, o conceito de “periferia” como característica do Brasil em relação a supostos países cêntricos, não somente, uma hipotética posição hierarquicamente inferior nos âmbitos culturais, políticos sociais etc. Analisa-se as teorias que defendem e atacam tais ideias buscando sempre um entendimento que não caia em anacronismo acadêmico tampouco exclua do período vigente suas características e peculiaridades sine qua non para a crítica dos juízos valorativos de cada época. Ademais, utiliza-se o trabalho “A organização Nacional” de Alberto Torres e “O idealismo da Constituição” de Oliveira Viana como bibliografia imprescindível para a compreensão da influência do pensamento nacionalista no movimento constitucional brasileiro, além disto, a influência prática de suas teorias na história.
A APLICAÇÃO DO CONTROLE DE CONVENCIONALIDADE PELO JUIZ BRASILEIRO: O CASO DO CRIME DE DESACATO
Authors: Torres Saulo de Medeiros , Ferreira de Souza e Saboya Keity Mara
Published: December 2021

A teoria do controle de convencionalidade vem trazendo importantes debates no direito brasileiro. Uma das discussões diz respeito a adequação do crime de desacato com a Convenção Americana de Direitos Humanos. A Corte Interamericana de Direitos Humanos já se pronunciou sobre a incompatibilidade do tipo penal e a liberdade de expressão prevista no Pacto de San José da Costa Rica. No caso do Brasil, nossa legislação penal contempla tal ilícito, surgindo a importância de saber como o Poder Judiciário brasileiro irá atuar ao ter que julgar casos concretos onde se suscite a inconvencionalidade do delito.
O FORNECIMENTO DE MEDICAMENTOS ESSENCIAIS AO TRATAMENTO DA AIDS NO CONTEXTO DO DIREITO À SAÚDE NA ORGANIZAÇÃO MUNDIAL DO COMÉRCIO
Authors: Pereira Gurgel Yara Maria , De Oliveira Silva Géssica Dayse
Published: December 2021

A partir da promulgação da Constituição de 1988, a construção de um novo paradigma democrático tem por suporte a dignidade da pessoa humana, agora encartada como fundamento da República Federativa do Brasil. Antes, o direito à saúde, assim como as políticas públicas a ele direcionadas, era caracterizado pela negligência estatal, implantado geralmente por medidas moralistas, assistencialistas e/ou filantrópicas. Com a inovação da Constituição Cidadã, a saúde passa a ser de responsabilidade de todos, exigindo-se do Estado prestações positivas e eficazes na promoção do bem-estar social. Neste contexto, analisar-se-á o fornecimento de medicamentos essenciais ao combate da AIDS pelo Estado Brasileiro como medida coerente e harmônica com os ditames da Constituição de 1988, assim como face aos instrumentos internacionais por aquele ratificados. Partindo-se da concepção do direito à saúde como espécie dos Direitos Humanos, o artigo objetiva destacar a caracterização do fornecimento de medicamentos essenciais ao controle da AIDS como prática capaz de suplantar o direito da Propriedade intelectual dos laboratórios farmacêuticos no âmbito da Organização Mundial do Comércio. Para tanto, utilizou-se do método indutivo, com revisão bibliográfica e obtenção de dados acerca da população infectada pelo vírus HIV, com o fito de conceituar institutos cujo conhecimento é essencial para a satisfatória compreensão do trabalho.
O DIÁLOGO ENTRE A JURISPRUDÊNCIA INTERAMERICANA DE DIREITOS HUMANOS E O DIREITO BRASILEIRO: UMA ANÁLISE A PARTIR DA APLICAÇÃO DO CONCEITO DE “DANO AO PROJETO DE VIDA”
Authors: Matos de Queiroz Ana Paula , Pereira Gurgel Yara Maria
Published: December 2021

o presente trabalho se destina a analisar o diálogo entre a jurisprudência americana em matéria de direitos humanos, especialmente os acórdãos da Corte Interamericana de Direitos Humanos, e o direito doméstico, através de pesquisa bibliográfica baseada em doutrina, jurisprudência nacional e internacional e, ainda, nas legislações brasileira e interamericana. Para tanto, será utilizado o exemplo do conceito de dano ao projeto de vida, aplicado pela Corte Interamericana, e o seu paralelo no direito brasileiro, o dano existencial. Dessa forma, primeiramente, se conceituará o dano ao projeto de vida, demonstrando o tratamento dado ao instituto pela Corte Interamericana, defende-se, em seguida, a utilização da jurisprudência interamericana enquanto fonte do direito estatal. Em seguida, se tratará do instituto do dano existencial, abordando, especialmente, a sua aplicação pelo direito de trabalho, no sentido de verificar se os tribunais trabalhistas pátrios estão fazendo a devida observância da jurisprudência interamericana.
SOBRE A INCOMPATIBILIDADE DAS AÇÕES DECLARATÓRIAS DE CONSTITUCIONALIDADE COM A NATUREZA DAS NORMAS JURÍDICAS
Authors: Reinaldo Guilherme de Negreiros Diógenes
Published: December 2021

O objetivo deste artigo é debater se há com compatibilidade entre a natureza da legalidade e o instrumento de controle de constitucionalidade previsto no artigo 102, §2º da Constituição Federal brasileira e disciplinado na Lei 9.868 de 1999, chamado “ação declaratória de constitucionalidade”. A metodologia empregada foi a de análise de construções conceituais oriundas da filosofia analítica do Direito, especificamente as noções de “autoridade enquanto serviço” e “razões protegidas” defendidas por Joseph Raz, bem como a teoria do Direito como planos (planning theory of Law) sustentada por Scott J. Shapiro a partir do conceito de “circunstâncias da legalidade”. Também é explicada qual a utilidade de aprofundar o debate sobre estes conceitos e as consequências do ponto de vista prático em aceitar tais perspectivas. Conclui-se que o referido instituto é incompatível, do ponto de vista conceitual, com a natureza das normas jurídicas.
Recent Trends in Tubulin-Binding Combretastatin A-4 Analogs for
Anticancer Drug Development
Authors: Paidakula Suresh , Nerella Srinivas , Kankala Shravankumar , Kankala Ranjith Kumar
Published: December 2021

:

Although significant progress over several decades has been evidenced in cancer
therapy, there remains a need for the development of novel and effective therapeutic
strategies to treat several relapsed and intractable cancers. In this regard, tubulin protein
has become one of the efficient and major targets for anticancer drug discovery. Considering
the antimitotic ability, several tubulin inhibitors have been developed to act against
various cancers. Among various tubulin inhibitors available, combretastatin-A4 (CA-4),
a naturally occurring lead molecule, offers exceptional cytotoxicity (including the drugresistant
cell lines) and antivascular effects. Although CA-4 offers exceptional therapeutic
efficacy, several new advancements have been proposed, in terms of structural modification
via A and B rings, as well as cis-olefinic bridging, which provide highly efficient
analogs with improved tubulin-binding efficiency to meet the anticancer drug development
requirements. This review systematically emphasizes the recent trends and latest developments
in the anticancer drug design and discovery using CA-4 analogs as the tubulin
inhibiting agents by highlighting their structure-activity relationships (SAR) and resultant
pharmacological efficacies.
A Comprehensive Review on PCSK9 as Mechanistic Target Approach in
Cancer Therapy
Authors: Saha Sudipta , Singh Amita , Kumar Pranesh , Sonkar Archana Bharti , Gautam Anurag Kumar , Verma Abhishek , Maity Biswanath , Tiwari Himani , Sahoo Nanda Gopal , Keshari Amit K. , Yadav S.K.
Published: December 2021

PCSK9 is a strongly expressed protein in the liver and brain that binds to the LDLR and
regulates cholesterol in the liver effectively. Other receptors with which it interacts include VLDLR,
LRP1, ApoER2, and OLR1. PCSK9 gain-of-function results in lysosomal degradation of these receptors,
which may result in hyperlipidemia. PCSK9 deficiency results in a lower amount of cholesterol,
which reduces cholesterol's accessibility to cancer cells. PCSK9 regulates several proteins and signaling
pathways in cancer, including JNK, NF-κВ, and the mitochondrial-mediated apoptotic pathway. In
the liver, breast, lungs, and colon tissue, PCSK9 initiates and facilitates cancer development, while in
prostate cancer cells, it induces apoptosis. PCSK9 has a significant impact on brain cancer, promoting
cancer cell survival by manipulating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and exhibiting apoptotic
activity in neurons by influencing the NF-κВ, JNK, and caspase-dependent pathways. The PCSK9
impact in cancer at different organs is explored in this study, as well as the targeted signaling mechanisms
involved in cancer growth. As a result, these signaling mechanisms may be aimed for the development
and exploration of anti-cancer drugs in the immediate future.
Formulating the Structural Aspects of Various Benzimidazole Cognates
Authors: Krishnendu Prayaga Rajappan , Koyiparambath Vishal Payyalot , Bhaskar Vaishnav , Arjun Babu , Zachariah Subin Mary
Published: December 2021

Background:

Benzimidazole derivatives are widely used in clinical practice as potential beneficial specialists. Recently, the neuroprotective effect of derivatives of benzimidazole moiety has also shown positive outcomes.

Objective:

To develop favourable molecules for various neurodegenerative disorders using the ver-satile chemical behaviour of the benzimidazole scaffold.

Methods:

About 25 articles were collected that discussed various benzimidazole derivatives and categorized them under various subheadings based on the targets such as BACE 1, JNK, MAO, choline esterase enzyme, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction in which they act. The struc-tural aspects of various benzimidazole derivatives were also studied.

Conclusion:

To manage various neurodegenerative disorders, a multitargeted approach will be the most hopeful stratagem. Some benzimidazole derivatives can be considered for future studies, which are mentioned in the discussed articles.
Amylin Pharmacology in Alzheimer’s Disease Pathogenesis and Treatment
Authors: Casadesus Gemma , Corrigan Rachel R. , Piontkivska Helen
Published: December 2021

:

The metabolic peptide hormone amylin, in concert with other metabolic peptides like insulin
and leptin, has an important role in metabolic homeostasis and has been intimately linked to
Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Interestingly, this pancreatic amyloid peptide is known to self-aggregate
much like amyloid-beta and has been reported to be a source of pathogenesis in both Type II diabetes
mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer’s disease. The traditional “gain of toxic function” properties assigned
to amyloid proteins are, however, contrasted by several reports highlighting neuroprotective
effects of amylin and a recombinant analog, pramlintide, in the context of these two diseases. This
suggests that pharmacological therapies aimed at modulating the amylin receptor may be therapeutically
beneficial for AD development, as they already are for T2DMM. However, the nature of amylin
receptor signaling is highly complex and not well studied in the context of CNS function. Therefore,
to begin to address this pharmacological paradox in amylin research, the goal of this review is
to summarize the current research on amylin signaling and CNS functions and critically address the
paradoxical nature of this hormone's signaling in the context of AD pathogenesis.
Evaluation of Anti-lice Topical Lotion of Ozonated Olive Oil and Comparison
of its Effect with Permethrin Shampoo
Authors: Rajabi Omid , Haghighizadeh Atoosa , Mortezanejad Seyedeh Azadeh Fallah , Dadpour Saba
Published: December 2021

Background:

Pediculosis is an infestation of lice affecting mostly children and spreads
by direct contact with the hair of someone infected. Although topical application of a pediculicide
such as permethrin shampoo is the most common cure for head lice, the addition of alternative treatments
is necessary due to permethrin resistance and some safety concerns, including irritation,
burning sensation, tingling, and breathing problems. Recent studies have indicated that ozone,
which is an allotropic form of oxygen, may have anti-pediculosis effects.

Objective:

This study focused on the evaluation of an ozonated olive oil topical lotion for the treatment
of pediculosis and the comparison of its effects with permethrin shampoo.

Methods:

121 patients with proven head pediculosis were divided into two groups. They were treated
with either topical ozonated olive oil lotion or permethrin shampoo for one week.

Results:

It was shown that the ozonation process enormously improved the physico-chemical properties
of olive oil. Specifically, acid and peroxide values increased 60 fold and 200 fold, respectively,
while there was a sharp decline for the iodine index (81.8±1.28 to 0 g iodine per 100 g).
Additionally, all patients who received the ozonated olive oil lotion were entirely cured after one
week of treatment, while those who were treated with permethrin, required to receive more. Statistical
analysis of the data also proved this claim.

Conclusion:

The prepared lotion has shown significant effects in controlling head lice. Thus, it can
be prescribed as an effective anti-pediculosis medicine which is biocompatible and has high potential.

Clinical Trial Registration:

IRCT registration number of IRCT2017100936672N1 (2017-11-14)
https://en.irct.ir/trial/27343.
Nutraceuticals in the Management of Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Where is the Evidence?
Authors: Russell Cody , Keshavamurthy Suresh , Saha Sibu
Published: December 2021

:

Cardiovascular disease continues to rise at an alarming rate, and research focuses on possible therapies to reduce the risk and slow down its progression. Several epidemiological studies have indicated that dietary modifications, such as increased consumption of fruits and vegetables play an important role in reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors. Food sources rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and hypoglycemic properties are thought to ameliorate the progression of cardiovascular disease and serve as a potential treatment mode. Many in vivo and in vitro studies using turmeric, cinnamon, mango, blueberries, red wine, chocolate, and extra virgin olive oil have demonstrated significant improvements in cholesterol profiles, toxic reactive oxygen species, inflammation, obesity, and hypertension. In this review, we summarize recent evidence on the cardioprotective effect of different food groups, outline their potential mechanisms involved in slowing down the progression of cardiovascular disease, and highlight the beneficial effects associated with increased consumption.
Relevance of Bioassay of Biologically Active Substances (BAS) with Geroprotective
Properties in the Model of the Nematode Caenorhabditis Elegans
in In Vivo Experiments
Authors: Dyshlyuk Lyubov S. , Dmitrieva Anastasiya I. , Drozdova Margarita Yu. , Milentyeva Irina S. , Prosekov Alexander Yu.
Published: December 2021

:

Aging is an inevitable process of nature. The age of living organisms contributes to the
appearance of chronic diseases, which not only reduce the quality of life but also significantly damage
it. Modern medicines can successfully fight multiple diseases and prolong life. At the same
time, medications have a large number of side effects. New research indicates that bioactive phytochemicals
have great potential for treating even the most severe diseases and can become an alternative
to medicines. Despite many studies in this area, the effects of many plant ingredients on living
organisms are poorly understood. Analysis of the mechanisms through which herbal preparations
influence the aging process helps to select the right active substances and determine the optimal
doses to obtain the maximum positive effect. It is preferable to check the effectiveness of plant
extracts and biologically active components with geroprotective properties in vivo. For these purposes,
live model systems, such as Rattusrattus, Musmusculus, Drosophila melanogaster, and
Caenorhabditis elegans are used. These models help to comprehensively study the impact of the developed
new drugs on the aging process. The model organism C. elegans is gaining increasing popularity
in these studies because of its many advantages. This review article discusses the advantages
of the nematode C. elegans as a model organism for studying the processes associated with
aging. The influence of various BAS and plant extracts on the increase in the life span of the nematode,
its stress resistance, and other markers of aging is also considered. The review shows that the
nematode C.elegans has a number of advantages over other organisms and is a promising model
system for studying the geroprotective properties of BAS.
Characterization of European Medieval Silver Bars Using Micro X-ray Fluorescence, Conductivity Meter and Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Barzingi Ahmad Nizamedien
Published: December 2021

The objective of this paper is to use μ-X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis to evaluate the fineness and components of European Medieval Silver Bars samples. Conductivity measurements were used to assess the fineness and localization of the faults found in the samples. Because unevenness causes a change in conductivity, the tests were performed on the flattest areas of the Bars. Some rods, such as B3 and B9, have greater conductivity than others. All bars were subjected to the segregation test. In the instance of certain bars, it was not always practicable to categorically state that segregation had happened. There is no diminishing conductivity curve as one moves away from the zero height, as there is for bars B1, B8, and B9. As a result, there may be no solidification on these bars from Obverse to Reverse. A scanning electron microscope was used to record the following bars at various positions on the bars, and quantitative determinations were achieved using energy-dispersed XRF analysis through intensity measurements of the element-specific wavelength.
Effect of Source Type and Protective Message on the Critical Evaluation of News Messages on Facebook: Randomized Controlled Trial in the Netherlands
Authors: Folkvord Frans , Snelting Freek , Anschutz Doeschka , Hartmann Tilo , Theben Alexandra , Gunderson Laura , Vermeulen Ivar , Lupiáñez-Villanueva Francisco
Published: December 2021

Background

Disinformation has become an increasing societal concern, especially due to the speed that news is shared in the digital era. In particular, disinformation in the health care sector can lead to serious casualties, as the current COVID-19 crisis clearly shows.

Objective

The main aim of this study was to experimentally examine the effects of information about the source and a protective warning message on users’ critical evaluation of news items, as well as the perception of accuracy of the news item.

Methods

A 3 (unreliable vs reliable vs no identified source) × 2 (with protective message vs without) between-subject design was conducted among 307 participants (mean age 29 (SD 10.9] years).

Results

The results showed a significant effect of source information on critical evaluation. In addition, including a protective message did not significantly affect critical evaluation. The results showed no interaction between type of source and protective message on critical evaluation.

Conclusions

Based on these results, it is questionable whether including protective messages to improve critical evaluation is a way to move forward and improve critical evaluation of health-related news items, although effective methodologies to tackle the spread of disinformation are highly needed.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05030883; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05030883
Virtual Reality Simulation Training for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation After Cardiac Surgery: Face and Content Validity Study
Authors: Sadeghi Amir H , Peek Jette J , Max Samuel A , Smit Liselot L , Martina Bryan G , Rosalia Rodney A , Bakhuis Wouter , Bogers Ad JJC , Mahtab Edris AF
Published: December 2021

Background

Cardiac arrest after cardiac surgery commonly has a reversible cause, where emergency resternotomy is often required for treatment, as recommended by international guidelines. We have developed a virtual reality (VR) simulation for training of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and emergency resternotomy procedures after cardiac surgery, the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Virtual Reality Simulator (CPVR-sim). Two fictive clinical scenarios were used: one case of pulseless electrical activity (PEA) and a combined case of PEA and ventricular fibrillation. In this prospective study, we researched the face validity and content validity of the CPVR-sim.

Objective

We designed a prospective study to assess the feasibility and to establish the face and content validity of two clinical scenarios (shockable and nonshockable cardiac arrest) of the CPVR-sim partly divided into a group of novices and experts in performing CPR and emergency resternotomies in patients after cardiac surgery.

Methods

Clinicians (staff cardiothoracic surgeons, physicians, surgical residents, nurse practitioners, and medical students) participated in this study and performed two different scenarios, either PEA or combined PEA and ventricular fibrillation. All participants (N=41) performed a simulation and completed the questionnaire rating the simulator’s usefulness, satisfaction, ease of use, effectiveness, and immersiveness to assess face validity and content validity.

Results

Responses toward face validity and content validity were predominantly positive in both groups. Most participants in the PEA scenario (n=26, 87%) felt actively involved in the simulation, and 23 (77%) participants felt in charge of the situation. The participants thought it was easy to learn how to interact with the software (n=24, 80%) and thought that the software responded adequately (n=21, 70%). All 15 (100%) expert participants preferred VR training as an addition to conventional training. Moreover, 13 (87%) of the expert participants would recommend VR training to other colleagues, and 14 (93%) of the expert participants thought the CPVR-sim was a useful method to train for infrequent post–cardiac surgery emergencies requiring CPR. Additionally, 10 (91%) of the participants thought it was easy to move in the VR environment, and that the CPVR-sim responded adequately in this scenario.

Conclusions

We developed a proof-of-concept VR simulation for CPR training with two scenarios of a patient after cardiac surgery, which participants found was immersive and useful. By proving the face validity and content validity of the CPVR-sim, we present the first step toward a cardiothoracic surgery VR training platform.
Posthospitalization Follow-Up of Patients With Heart Failure Using eHealth Solutions: Restricted Systematic Review
Authors: Morken Ingvild Margreta , Storm Marianne , Søreide Jon Arne , Urstad Kristin Hjorthaug , Karlsen Bjørg , Husebø Anne Marie Lunde
Published: December 2021

Background

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome with high incidence rates, a substantial symptom and treatment burden, and a significant risk of readmission within 30 days after hospitalization. The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed the significance of using eHealth interventions to follow up on the care needs of patients with HF to support self-care, increase quality of life (QoL), and reduce readmission rates during the transition between hospital and home.

Objective

The aims of this review are to summarize research on the content and delivery modes of HF posthospitalization eHealth interventions, explore patient adherence to the interventions, and examine the effects on the patient outcomes of self-care, QoL, and readmissions.

Methods

A restricted systematic review study design was used. Literature searches and reviews followed the (PRISMA-S) Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses literature search extension checklist, and the CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies published between 2015 and 2020. The review process involved 3 groups of researchers working in pairs. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to assess the included studies’ methodological quality. A thematic analysis method was used to analyze data extracted from the studies.

Results

A total of 18 studies were examined in this review. The studies were published between 2015 and 2019, with 56% (10/18) of them published in the United States. Of the 18 studies, 16 (89%) were randomized controlled trials, and 14 (78%) recruited patients upon hospital discharge to eHealth interventions lasting from 14 days to 12 months. The studies involved structured telephone calls, interactive voice response, and telemonitoring and included elements of patient education, counseling, social and emotional support, and self-monitoring of symptoms and vital signs. Of the 18 studies, 11 (61%) provided information on patient adherence, and the adherence levels were 72%-99%. When used for posthospitalization follow-up of patients with HF, eHealth interventions can positively affect QoL, whereas its impact is less evident for self-care and readmissions.

Conclusions

This review suggests that patients with HF should receive prompt follow-up after hospitalization and eHealth interventions have the potential to improve these patients’ QoL. Patient adherence in eHealth follow-up trials shows promise for successful future interventions and adherence research. Further studies are warranted to examine the effects of eHealth interventions on self-care and readmissions among patients with HF.