bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ginsenoside Rg1 Attenuates Premature Ovarian Failure of D-gal Induced
POF Mice Through Downregulating p16INK4a and Upregulating SIRT1
Expression
Authors: Liu Xiao-Hu , Cai Shi-Zhong , Zhou Yue , Wang Ya-Ping , Han Yan-Jun , Wang Cui-Li , Zhou Wen
Published: August 2021

Background:

Premature ovarian failure (POF) refers to pathological amenorrhea before
40 years.

Aim/Objective:

To explore the regulatory effect of Rg1 on POF and clarify associated mechanisms.

Materials and Methods:

POF mice were induced by injecting with D-galactose (D-gal, 200 mg/kg/-
day). Mice were divided into phosphate buffered saline (PBS), D-gal (POF mice), D-gal/Rg1 group
(POF mice administrating D-gal/Rg1). Weight growth rate and ovarian weight coefficient were
measured. Serum estradiol (E2), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), superoxide
dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) levels were examined using ELISA. The status of follicle
and corpus luteum was determined using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. P16INK4a and silent-
mating type information regulation-2 homolog-1 (SIRT1) were determined using western blotting
and RT-PCR.

Results:

Weight growth rate and ovarian weight coefficient of mice in D-gal group were significantly
decreased than PBS group (p<0.05). Serum E2, LH, SOD, CAT levels were significantly decreased,
FSH levels were remarkably increased in D-gal group than PBS group (p<0.05). Rg1 (D--
gal/Rg1 group) significantly increased weight growth rate and ovarian weight coefficient, enhanced
E2, LH, SOD, CAT levels and decreased FSH levels than D-gal group (p<0.05). HE staining
demonstrated normal follicle morphology/structure of mice in PBS group and decreased the
number of follicles, obvious vacuolation of corpus luteum and increased atretic follicles of mice in
D-gal group. Compared with D-gal group, the number of follicles was increased, luteal follicles
were decreased in mice in D-gal/Rg1 group (p<0.05). Rg1 significantly (D-gal/Rg1) downregulated
p16INK4a and upregulated SIRT1 expression in ovarian tissues of mice compared to the D-gal
group (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

Rg1 could delay premature ovarian failure in D-gal induced POF mouse model
through downregulating p16INK4a and upregulating SIRT1 expression.
SUAMI DIPENJARA SEBAGAI ALASAN CERAI GUGAT; PERSPEKTIF FIKIH DAN LEGISLASI NEGERI MUSLIM
Authors: Trigiyatno Ali
Published: August 2021

This paper aims to compare the provisions of fiqh with the legislation in terms of the husband being imprisoned as the reason for the wife to file for divorce in four Muslim countries. They are Indonesia as a representative of the country with the majority of the population following the Shafi'i school, Morocco representing the Maliki school, Jordan representing the Hanafi school, and Qatar representing the Hanbali school. Using a normative approach and a comparative method, this paper aims to look for aspects of similarities as well as differences from fiqh provisions compared to legislation in the four countries. The results shows that the legislation in the four countries basically takes the opinion of the Maliki and Hanbali schools which allow divorce because the husband is imprisoned. From the four countries, Indonesia has set the longest prison term, which is five years, while Morocco and Jordan are imprisoned for a minimum of three years and Qatar is two years. Indonesia and Jordan seem quite far from leaving the rules in the dominant fiqh school in their country by not following the school's fatwa adopted to prohibit divorce because the husband is imprisoned. Meanwhile, Morocco and Qatar are in accordance with the dominant schools of jurisprudence in their countries, with a few additions to more detailed and operational rules.
INTERPRETASI INTERNATIONAL COURT of JUSTICE (ICJ) PADA PASAL VI PERJANJIAN NON-PROLIFERATION TREATY 1968 (NPT)
Authors: Nugraha Taufik
Published: August 2021

It has been 50 years since the Non-Proliferation Treaty was made by America, England, and the Soviet Union to prevent the nuclear arms race in the future. However, Article VI of NPT consisted of ambiguity and has sparked long-lasting debate questioning NPT electiveness. Article VI at least has been examining twice by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1996 and 2014. Unfortunately, those examinations were unsatisfied regarding when Nuclear Weapon State (NWS) should cease and disarmament their nuclear weapon? If referring to “an early date,” it should be done years long ago and not taking more than 50 years with pathetic achievement. Finally, this article will examine the current development of NWS using a normative juridical method according to existing nuclear regulation, ICJ Commentary, which resulting in a suggestion when NPT 1968 parties should fulfil their obligation under Art VI NPT 1968.
Potentials of Edible Canna (Canna edulis Kerr) Starch for Bioplastic: A Review
Authors:   Universitas Internasional Semen Indonesia, Gabriel Azmi Alvian , Solikhah Anggita Fitri ,   Universitas Internasional Semen Indonesia, Rahmawati Alifia Yuanika ,   Universitas Internasional Semen Indonesia, Taradipa Yunita Sasmi ,   Universitas Internasional Semen Indonesia, Maulida Erni Tsania ,   Universitas Internasional Semen Indonesia
Published: August 2021

Starch-based bioplastic was more economical and competitive compared to bacteria-based bioplastics (polylactic acid, polybutylene succinate, and polyhydroxyalkanoates) due to the starch variances and the availability in Indonesia, along with the simple techniques that can be applied. This review aimed to describe the potential and opportunities of edible canna starch as an alternative raw material of bioplastics production. Edible canna tuber productivity in Java, Indonesia, with a harvest age of about eight months reaches 30-49.4 tons/ha. It will produce a mature segment 70.2% of the total harvest weight. Edible canna tuber was a carbohydrate source that contains 88.10% starch with an advantage of 68% higher fiber and mineral content than other tubers. Furthermore, canna tuber starch contains amylose proportions of 35.0%. The high amylose content in canna starch is one of the properties that can position its function for developing packaging materials. The gelatinization process of canna starch requires a short time and low energy because of its large granule size (56 μm). A literature review of canna starch as an alternative of bioplastic raw materials needs to be carried out to obtain accurate data and information regarding treatment, use of additional materials, and characteristics of bioplastic products resulting from experimental studies so that they can be further implemented.
Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Urban Water Cycle
Authors:   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States, Heidari Hadi , Grigg Neil S ,   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado State University, 1372 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1372, United States
Published: August 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global crisis spreading to all countries. This study explains and documents the first-order effects of the new coronavirus on the urban water cycle. Urban water systems play an important role in public health because people rely so heavily on water services. Findings address short- and long-term changes in climate variables; availability and accessibility of clean water to prevent and control the spread of coronavirus in water-scarce cities; shifts in habits, behavior, and lifestyles of people and effects on water demand during lockdowns; and role of wastewater treatment in preventing the spread of coronavirus.
Pediatric Clinicians’ Use of Telemedicine: Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Finkelstein Julia B , Tremblay Elise S , Van Cain Melissa , Farber-Chen Aaron , Schumann Caitlin , Brown Christina , Shah Ankoor S , Rhodes Erinn T
Published: August 2021

Background

Bedside manner describes how clinicians relate to patients in person. Telemedicine allows clinicians to connect virtually with patients using digital tools. Effective virtual communication or webside manner may require modifications to traditional bedside manner.

Objective

This study aims to understand the experiences of telemedicine providers with patient-to-provider virtual visits and communication with families at a single large-volume children’s hospital to inform program development and training for future clinicians.

Methods

A total of 2 focus groups of pediatric clinicians (N=11) performing virtual visits before the COVID-19 pandemic, with a range of experiences and specialties, were engaged to discuss experiential, implementation, and practice-related issues. Focus groups were facilitated using a semistructured guide covering general experience, preparedness, rapport strategies, and suggestions. Sessions were digitally recorded, and the corresponding transcripts were reviewed for data analysis. The transcripts were coded based on the identified main themes and subthemes. On the basis of a higher-level analysis of these codes, the study authors generated a final set of key themes to describe the collected data.

Results

Theme consistency was identified across diverse participants, although individual clinician experiences were influenced by their specialties and practices. A total of 3 key themes emerged regarding the development of best practices, barriers to scalability, and establishing patient rapport. Issues and concerns related to privacy were salient across all themes. Clinicians felt that telemedicine required new skills for patient interaction, and not all were comfortable with their training.

Conclusions

Telemedicine provides benefits as well as challenges to health care delivery. In interprofessional focus groups, pediatric clinicians emphasized the importance of considering safety and privacy to promote rapport and webside manner when conducting virtual visits. The inclusion of webside manner instructions within training curricula is crucial as telemedicine becomes an established modality for providing health care.
Automatic ICD-10 Coding and Training System: Deep Neural Network Based on Supervised Learning (Preprint)
Authors: Chen Pei-Fu , Wang Ssu-Ming , Liao Wei-Chih , Kuo Lu-Cheng , Chen Kuan-Chih , Lin Yu-Cheng , Yang Chi-Yu , Chiu Chi-Hao , Chang Shu-Chih , Lai Feipei
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) code is widely used as the reference in medical system and billing purposes. However, classifying diseases into ICD codes still mainly relies on humans reading a large amount of written material as the basis for coding. Coding is both laborious and time-consuming. Since the conversion of ICD-9 to ICD-10, the coding task became much more complicated, and deep learning– and natural language processing–related approaches have been studied to assist disease coders.

OBJECTIVE

This paper aims at constructing a deep learning model for ICD-10 coding, where the model is meant to automatically determine the corresponding diagnosis and procedure codes based solely on free-text medical notes to improve accuracy and reduce human effort.

METHODS

We used diagnosis records of the National Taiwan University Hospital as resources and apply natural language processing techniques, including global vectors, word to vectors, embeddings from language models, bidirectional encoder representations from transformers, and single head attention recurrent neural network, on the deep neural network architecture to implement ICD-10 auto-coding. Besides, we introduced the attention mechanism into the classification model to extract the keywords from diagnoses and visualize the coding reference for training freshmen in ICD-10. Sixty discharge notes were randomly selected to examine the change in the F1-score and the coding time by coders before and after using our model.

RESULTS

In experiments on the medical data set of National Taiwan University Hospital, our prediction results revealed F1-scores of 0.715 and 0.618 for the ICD-10 Clinical Modification code and Procedure Coding System code, respectively, with a bidirectional encoder representations from transformers embedding approach in the Gated Recurrent Unit classification model. The well-trained models were applied on the ICD-10 web service for coding and training to ICD-10 users. With this service, coders can code with the F1-score significantly increased from a median of 0.832 to 0.922 (P<.05), but not in a reduced interval.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed model significantly improved the F1-score but did not decrease the time consumed in coding by disease coders.
Efficacy of Telemedicine in Hypertension Care Through Home Blood Pressure Monitoring and Videoconferencing: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Yatabe Junichi , Yatabe Midori Sasaki , Okada Rika , Ichihara Atsuhiro
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

The burden of time is often the primary reason why patients discontinue their treatment. Telemedicine may help patients adhere to treatment by offering convenience.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the efficacy and safety of telemedicine for the management of hypertension in Japan.

METHODS

Patients with uncomplicated hypertension were recruited through web advertising between November 2015 and February 2017. They were then screened, stratified by office systolic blood pressure (SBP), and randomized into two groups: usual care (UC) and telemedicine. The telemedicine group used a 3G network–attached home blood pressure (BP) monitoring device, consulted hypertension specialists from an academic hospital through web-based video visits, and received prescription medication by mail for 1 year. The UC group used the same BP monitoring device but was managed using self-recorded BP readings, which included their diary entries and office BP taken in a community practice setting.

RESULTS

Initial screening was completed by 99 patients, 54% of whom had untreated hypertension. Baseline BP was similar between the groups, but the weekly average SBP at the end of the 1-year study period was significantly lower in the telemedicine group (125, SD 9 mmHg vs 131, SD 12 mmHg, respectively; P=.02). SBP in the telemedicine group was 3.4 mmHg lower in the morning and 5.8 mmHg lower in the evening. The rate of SBP control (135 mmHg) was better in the telemedicine group (85.3% vs 70.0%; P=.01), and significant adverse events were not observed.

CONCLUSIONS

We present evidence suggesting that antihypertensive therapy via home BP telemonitoring and web-based video visits achieve better BP control than conventional care and is a safe treatment alternative that warrants further investigation.

CLINICALTRIAL

UMIN-CTR UMIN000025372; https://tinyurl.com/47ejkn4b
Promoting Health via mHealth Applications Using a French Version of the Mobile App Rating Scale: Adaptation and Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Saliasi Ina , Martinon Prescilla , Darlington Emily , Smentek Colette , Tardivo Delphine , Bourgeois Denis , Dussart Claude , Carrouel Florence , Fraticelli Laurie
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

In the recent decades, the number of apps promoting health behaviors and health-related strategies and interventions has increased alongside the number of smartphone users. Nevertheless, the validity process for measuring and reporting app quality remains unsatisfactory for health professionals and end users and represents a public health concern. The Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) is a tool validated and widely used in the scientific literature to evaluate and compare mHealth app functionalities. However, MARS is not adapted to the French culture nor to the language.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to translate, adapt, and validate the equivalent French version of MARS (ie, MARS-F).

METHODS

The original MARS was first translated to French by two independent bilingual scientists, and their common version was blind back-translated twice by two native English speakers, culminating in a final well-established MARS-F. Its comprehensibility was then evaluated by 6 individuals (3 researchers and 3 nonacademics), and the final MARS-F version was created. Two bilingual raters independently completed the evaluation of 63 apps using MARS and MARS-F. Interrater reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients. In addition, internal consistency and validity of both scales were assessed. Mokken scale analysis was used to investigate the scalability of both MARS and MARS-F.

RESULTS

MARS-F had a good alignment with the original MARS, with properties comparable between the two scales. The correlation coefficients (r) between the corresponding dimensions of MARS and MARS-F ranged from 0.97 to 0.99. The internal consistencies of the MARS-F dimensions engagement (ω=0.79), functionality (ω=0.79), esthetics (ω=0.78), and information quality (ω=0.61) were acceptable and that for the overall MARS score (ω=0.86) was good. Mokken scale analysis revealed a strong scalability for MARS (Loevinger H=0.37) and a good scalability for MARS-F (H=0.35).

CONCLUSIONS

MARS-F is a valid tool, and it would serve as a crucial aid for researchers, health care professionals, public health authorities, and interested third parties, to assess the quality of mHealth apps in French-speaking countries.
Brief Educational Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Intervention in an Infectious Disease Clinic: Protocol for a Case Series Study (Preprint)
Authors: Dalton Cynthia , Dalton Cynthia , Cornelius Judith , Davis Bernard
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Men who have sex with men (MSM) remains the highest group infected with HIV despite treatment with medications knows as preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). PrEP in combination with safer sex practices has shown efficacy in preventing HIV infection. Despite awareness campaigns, PrEP uptake remains low with African American MSM. While brief educational interventions have value in fast-paced clinical settings with limited appointment times a brief PrEP educational intervention had not been initiated with MSM in a fast-paced outpatient infectious disease clinic in North Carolina.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of initiating a brief PrEP brief educational intervention with African American MSM in a sexually transmitted disease clinic.

METHODS

We will examine the effects of the brief educational PrEP intervention at three time points, baseline, 4 weeks later (first visit) and at the 3-month follow-up (2nd visit). The primary outcomes will be PrEP knowledge, medication adherence, and sexually transmitted infections outcomes. We will also examine a secondary outcome of high-risk sexual behaviors.

RESULTS

To date, a total of seven participants have consented to participate in the study. Data analysis is ongoing. We anticipate that the results will be published by Fall 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will report the effectiveness of implementing a brief PrEP educational intervention in a fast-paced clinic setting on reducing the incidences of HIV infection.
Telemedical Interventions for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Management: Umbrella Review (Preprint)
Authors: Koh Jin Hean , Chong Lydia Ching Yee , Koh Gerald Choon Huat , Tyagi Shilpa
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a growing epidemic, with a heavy associated economic burden. Education, physical activity, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs are important aspects of the management of COPD. These interventions are commonly delivered remotely as part of telemedicine interventions. Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been conducted to assess the effectiveness of these interventions. However, these reviews often have conflicting conclusions.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to conduct an umbrella review to critically appraise and summarize the available evidence on telemedicine interventions for the management of COPD.

METHODS

In this umbrella review, the MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to May 2022 for systematic reviews and meta-analyses relating to telemedicine interventions for the management of COPD. We compared odds ratios, measures of quality, and heterogeneity across different outcomes.

RESULTS

We identified 7 systematic reviews that met the inclusion criteria. Telemedicine interventions used in these reviews were teletreatment, telemonitoring, and telesupport. Telesupport interventions significantly reduced the number of inpatient days and quality of life. Telemonitoring interventions were associated with significant reductions in respiratory exacerbations and hospitalization rates. Teletreatment showed significant effectiveness in reducing respiratory exacerbations, hospitalization rate, compliance (acceptance and dropout rate), and physical activity. Among studies that used integrated telemedicine interventions, there was a significant improvement in physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Telemedicine interventions showed noninferiority or superiority over the standard of care for the management of COPD. Telemedicine interventions should be considered as a supplement to usual methods of care for the outpatient management of COPD, with the aim of reducing the burden on health care systems.
Comparative Biology of Coconut Leaf Beetle (Clb) Brontispa longissimi (Gestro) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on Selected Coconut Varieties
Authors:   Agriculture Department College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Bohol Island State University Zamora, Bilar, Bohol 6317, Cabelin Gladys , Ceniza Maria Juliet ,   Department of Plant Protection College of Agriculture and Food Science Visayas State University ViSCA, Baybay City, Leyte 6521
Published: August 2021

Comparative biology and development study of B. longissima Gestro was conducted using different coconut varieties namely: Baybay tall (BAYT) green, Baybay tall (BAYT) brown, Malayan Red dwarf (MRD), Malayan Yellow dwarf (MYD), Albuera dwarf (ALD), and Tacunan dwarf (TACD) varieties was investigated in the laboratory. The duration of the developmental period of B. longissimi was influenced by the different coconut varieties used as host plant. Duration from egg laying to hatching of eggs of B. longissima on tall varieties ranged from 3 to 5 days, while on dwarf varieties it took 4 to 5 days. In all varieties, Brontispa beetles underwent 5–6 instars. In addition, it was observed that the fifth and sixth instars took a longer time period compared to other instars. The total mean developmental period of Brontispa on BAYT (green and brown) was shorter in days compared to all dwarf varieties except to ALD. The results generally showed that BAYT (green and brown) seemed to be a preferred variety. There was considerably higher larvae mortality in dwarf variety like MRD (40%) than those reared in the BAYT green and brown (22.21%, 19.12%), respectively. Beetles reared on BAYT (brown) also had the highest fecundity which was statistically different from the rest of the varieties. In addition, results showed that adults reared in both BAYT (green and brown) had the highest longevity observed compared to other varieties
Exploring Self-Regulation of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Belinda Belinda , Dewi Zahrasari Lukita
Published: August 2021

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) undergoing hemodialysis often experience residual impacts of the treatment on their physical, economic, social, and psychological, to an extent that CKD is considered a barrier for individuals to fully participate and enjoy life. It is crucial for CKD patients self-regulate their cognitive, social and emotional health in order to function optimally. This research aimed to explore the self-regulation process of CKD patients. This research adopted a qualitative exploratory utilizing in-depth interview as a data collection technique. There were three participants in the research recruited through convenience sampling, two men and one female aged 50-60 years and undergoing hemodialysis within 6-10 months.  The analysis process used thematic analysis guided by a common-sense model of self-regulation. Findings showed that at an initial stage patients perceived CKD and its treatment emotionally, but this was changed over time to be more positive. Two participants had adequate coping strategies and received support from the closest relatives to assist in the evaluation, while, one participant was more emotionally harboring and lacked social support. The evaluation process could encourage participants to seek information and understand CKD better. Further research suggested that sampling techniques could involve participants with a more diverse age range in order to have more varied data that can be used by other CKD patients with diverse age range.
The Role of Dispositional Optimism, Upward and Downward Counterfactual Thinking towards Student Persistence in Joining Competitions
Authors: Pawitra Maria Gracia Amara , Anggoro Wahyu Jati
Published: August 2021

Persistence is a key element contributing to college students’ success in an academic competition. We argue that dispositional optimism, and upward and downward counterfactual thinking have influence in determining individuals’ persistence. This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the role of dispositional optimism, upward and downward counterfactual thinking among persistence of student participants in university competitions. It employed quantitative methods and data were collected through the use of Dispositional Optimism Scale, Counterfactual Thinking Scale, and Persistence Scale. College students (N=204) who have competed in university competitions were recruited using a non-probability sampling method. Multiple regression assisted the data analysis process. Result showed that both dispositional optimism and upward counterfactual thinking simultaneously predicted students’ persistence. However, downward counterfactual thinking was unable to predict the students’ persistence. The research suggests that student competitors should enhance their optimism by developing positive thoughts concerning future competitions, as well as forming upward counterfactual thinking in subsequent competitions.
Detection of Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Cytotoxicity Activities of Fusarium oxysporum F01 Isolated from Catharanthus roseus Collected in Vietnam
Authors: Tu Nguyen Hoang Khue , Thuy Ngo Thi Thanh , Vinh Doan Thi Thanh , Anh Nguyen Pham Quynh , Ly Ha Dieu
Published: August 2021

The ability of endophytic fungi to produce valuable bioactive compounds when surviving in medicinal herbs. Finding out endophytic fungi originated from Catharanthus roseus with antimicrobial, antioxidant and cytotoxicity activities is important for pharmaceutical development. The isolation was based on the morphology of fungi. Identification was performed by sequencing 18S rRNA that was compared with known genes using Blast search in the combination of phylogenic analysis by using Clustal W and PhyML in GenomeNet. For the antimicrobial test, the agar diffusion method was used. DPPH scavenging assay for the antioxidant activity determination by using spectrophotometry. The cytotoxicity test was carried out by Sulforhodamine B method. LC-MS was applied for predicting components. We isolated the Fusarium oxysporum F01 strain originated from Catharanthus roseus. The aqueous extracts showed inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 (15.00 ± 0.50 mm), Serratia marcescens ATCC 14756 (9.00 ± 0.87 mm), Vibrio parahaemolyticus ATCC 17802 (15.50 ± 0.87 mm), Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 (12.50 ± 0.50 mm). The antioxidant activity of the extract obtained from the supernatant was determined with an IC50 value of about 11 µg/mL. The extract also showed cytotoxicity effect on liver cancer cell line (HepG2) and breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) with the percentage of inhibition of 84.47 ± 3.18 and 94.69 ± 1.59, respectively. LC-MS was used to point out the presence of pratol, a melanogenesis agent. The study provided more interesting information about Fusarium oxysporum F01 isolated in Catharanthus roseus grown in Vietnam, contributing to pharmaceutical sources in the world.
Experiências de regulação de preços de medicamentos em países selecionados: lições para o Brasil
Authors:   Instituto de Economia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil, Miranda Alves de Souza Caroline , Paranhos Julia ,   Instituto de Economia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil, Hasenclever Lia ,   Instituto de Economia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil / Universidade Cândido Mendes, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brasil
Published: August 2021

Introdução:A regulação de preços no mercado farmacêutico é comum aos países de diversos níveis de desenvolvimento, mas a motivação para sua implementação difere entre países desenvolvidos e em desenvolvimento. Objetivo:Discutir, com base em outras experiências de regulação de preços de medicamentos em países selecionados, a regulação de preços de medicamentos em vigor no Brasil, de modo a acumular evidências da necessidade de melhorias na regulação em vigor. Método:Revisão da literatura sobre modelos regulatórios de preços de medicamentos em países selecionados. Resultados:Com a sistematização da literatura, realizou-se a análise dos diferentes tipos de regulação de preços de medicamentos por grupo de países europeus e em desenvolvimento. Conclusões:A revisão de literatura serviu para observar as diferenças da regulação de preços dos medicamentos em distintos países em comparação com a brasileira e trazer sugestões de como aperfeiçoar a regulação atual para se alcançar resultados mais desejáveis.
Avaliação das autuações da Vigilância Sanitária municipal em serviços de alimentação em uma capital no nordeste do Brasil
Authors:   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brasi, Lacerda Pessoa Renata , Edson Pinheiro de Lima Roberval ,   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brasi, Moura Rolim Priscilla ,   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brasi, Mont’Alverne Seabra Larissa ,   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brasi, Soares Sônia ,   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brasi
Published: August 2021

Introdução: O papel regulador da vigilância sanitária implica, dentre outras, ações fiscalizatórias mediante lavratura de Autos de Infração nem sempre publicizados. Objetivo: Identificar a publicidade das decisões de Processos Administrativos Sanitários instaurados pela Vigilância Sanitária Municipal em Serviços de Alimentação de uma capital do Nordeste brasileiro e avaliar as penalidades impostas. Método:Estudo transversal de abordagem qualitativa, que utilizou a técnica de análise documental. Os dados foram obtidos a partir de consulta on-line ao Diário Oficial do Município, no período de 2015 a 2018. Resultados:Foram encontrados 509 processos, sendo 16,7% em 2015, 35,9% em 2016, 34,6% em 2017 e 12,8% em 2018. “Advertência” foi a penalidade mais aplicada, isoladamente, seguida por “multa”. Advertência e multa foram aplicadas cumulativamente com “inutilização de produtos”, respectivamente em 11,0% e 4,9% dos casos. “Interdição total” foi aplicada sempre cumulada, 7,7% com advertência e 1,4% com multa. Foram mais penalizados: “restaurantes e similares” (22,3%), “supermercados e hipermercados” (10,3%), “lanchonetes, casas de chá, sucos e similares” e “minimercados, mercearias e armazéns” (ambos com 6,9%). O maior percentual foi de estabelecimentos que não puderam ser classificados (36,7%). Conclusões:Há publicidade das decisões, mas não das infrações. A sistematização e a avaliação das decisões de processos administrativos são mecanismos de prestação de contas à sociedade e podem ser importantes ferramentas de gestão em Vigilância Sanitária. Para uma avaliação dos fatores de risco minimizados ou eliminados por essa ferramenta seria necessário conhecer o que motivou a lavratura dos Autos de Infração.
Poland and Hungary: Democratic Backsliding and the Shifting European Political Landscape
Authors: Everett Judas
Published: August 2021

This study focuses on the role of Poland and Hungary in the shifting European political landscape, especially considering their recent democratic backsliding. Methodologically, the impact of domestic factors, specifically those involved in democratic backsliding, are qualitatively considered as a source of Poland and Hungarys international policy, focusing on European politics. There is significant literature available on the waves and counter waves of democratic change in the world, which is used to provide context for the cases at hand. Then, the theory of consolidation of democracy is considered, including whether Poland and Hungary were really cases of consolidated democracies. The developing Polish-Hungarian coalition, in the European context, is then considered. The two nations role in driving the EU towards a more restrictive migration policy during the migration crisis is discussed, as is the future EU role of Poland and Hungary. The article finds that whether through extreme pressure, setting the agenda or leading the way, as during the migrant crisis, or forming a new European political grouping, Poland and Hungary look set to actively attempt to mould the EU, and European politics more generally, to their liking.
Party Strength of Regionalist Parties of United Kingdom: Conceptualisation and Measuring
Authors: Grabevnik Mikhail V.
Published: August 2021

The article conceptualizes the concept of party strength and the measurement of its two quantitative elements (electoral and institutional) by example of four United Kingdom regionalist parties: Scottish National Party, Democratic Unionist Party, Sinn Fein and Plaid Cymru. Based on the analysis of the main theoretical approaches to party strength, the article proposes a method for its measurement, which can be used to measure and evaluate regionalism through the strength of regionalist parties in different political and institutional contexts. Comparing the levels of electoral and institutional party strength allows to highlight several tendencies: growth in electoral strength of UK regionalist parties during 2010s is noted, with stabilization of the institutional party strength; and the gap in the levels of institutional strength of the regionalist parties does not reflect the difference in the level of electoral strength. At the same time, the article mentions the challenges to assessing the strength of regionalist parties, namely, the need for detailed conceptualization of the qualitative characteristics of the party strength and the lack of analysis of the communicative and organizational elements of party strength.
O avanço eleitoral da extrema direita no século XXI e seus efeitos nos sistemas de partidos europeus
Authors: Sanchez de Dios Manuel
Published: August 2021

A partir da análise do formato dos sistemas de partidos, este artigo estuda a evolução do apoio eleitoral dos partidos de extrema direita da Europa ocidental e seus efeitos sobre a fragmentação de cada sistema, assim como as consequências que a volatilidade eleitoral tem sobre o realinhamento dos eleitores. Também se considera a polarização dos partidos analisando as issues mais relevantes em seus programas de acordo com os dados do Manifesto Project. Conclui-se que não há uma pauta homogênea no desenvolvimento dos partidos de extrema direita europeus no século XXI, embora haja um aumento do pluralismo em geral e a competição no eixo esquerda/direita; que na maior parte dos casos houve um realinhamento do eleitorado de tipo secular; que em alguns casos há uma elevada fragmentação e polarização que não chega a ser relevante para a governabilidade dos países, e, por último, há uma tendência geral de confluência estratégica desses partidos na moderação programática para ampliar a base eleitoral.
A DESIGUALDADE REGIONAL E A PERSISTÊNCIA DA POBREZA EM MOÇAMBIQUE, EXPLICADAS NA PERSPECTIVA DO CÍRCULO VICIOSO DA POBREZA
Authors: Libânio Gilberto , Castigo Castigo José
Published: August 2021

Este trabalho pretende analisar como as desigualdades regionais influenciaram negativamente na eficácia das políticas para a redução da pobreza em Moçambique, no período 2001-2014, fazendo uso do princípio do Círculo Vicioso da Pobreza defendido por Myrdal. Assim, adotou-se o acesso às oportunidades de emprego, à educação e à saúde nas diferentes regiões e províncias como variáveis centrais para aferir estas desigualdades. Para isso, partiu-se do pressuposto de que as desigualdades no seu acesso impactam a eficácia das políticas adotadas para a redução da pobreza, sendo menos efetivas onde houver mais desigualdades no acesso e mais efetivas onde tiver menos desigualdades. Constatou-se que as províncias com maiores desigualdades tiveram uma menor resposta às políticas de redução da pobreza, entre elas as da região norte (Niassa, Cabo Delgado e Nampula) e duas da região centro (Zambézia e Sofala). Nesta sequência, todas as da região sul (Inhambane, Gaza, Maputo província e cidade), tiveram relativamente uma maior resposta às políticas. Todavia, a única província que não encontrou explicação no Círculo Vicioso da Pobreza foi a de Tete. Finalmente, em termos de alternativas de políticas, sugeriu-se dar ênfase à promoção da educação e da saúde e ao aumento da produtividade agrícola por investimento público em infraestruturas agrárias e transferências de tecnologias para as províncias com mais desigualdades, no lugar de políticas que dão mesmo peso as regiões ou províncias.
Effects of Voice Therapy Using Gliding and Humming in Dysphonic Patients With Glottal Gap
Authors: Jung Dae-Yong , Shim Mi-Ran , Hwang Yeon-Shin , Kim Geun-Jeon , Sun Dong-Il
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives Therapies have been reported to treat the glottal gap previously. However, these voice therapies showed the limits because many techniques focused only on one among breathing, resonance and phonation. In addition patients often have difficulties visiting hospital frequently. ‘Gliding and humming’ is vocal training technique that readjusts total vocal patterns such as breathing, resonance and phonation. This technique can be easily applied during short term sessions. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of voice therapy with ‘gliding and humming’ for patients with glottic gap during short-term treatment sessions.Materials and Method Twenty-three patients with glottal gap were selected. Of all patients, 14 patients had sulcus vocalis and 12 patients had muscle tension dysphonia (MTD). Voice therapies were performed 1.9 sessions in average. GRBAS, jitter, shimmer, noise to harmonic ratio, semitone range, closed quotient_vowel and maximum phonation time were compared before and after the therapies. In addition, changes of glottal gap and MTD severity were evaluated.Results Statistically significant improvement was observed. MTD improvement was observed only among the patients with glottal gap improvement. Also sulcus vocalis group showed the statistically significant improvement.Conclusion ‘Gliding and humming’ was effective to the patients with glottic gap and sulcus vocalis. Also, among patients who have both glottic gap and MTD, the data suggests that voice therapy for glottic gap also makes improvement in MTD.
A Case of Plasma Cell Mucositis Arising From the Larynx
Authors: Lee Chang Bae , Heo Jae Won , Pak Min Gyoung , Lee Dong Kun
Published: August 2021

Plasma cell mucositis is a very rare benign disease characterized by dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the submucosa layer. It appears as a reddish ulcer on the mucous membrane or as a cobblestone or nodular mass on the affected mucosa. When it involves the pharynx or larynx, the patient presents with dysphagia, voice change and dyspnea. Clinically, it is important to differentiate with malignant diseases such as extramedullary plasmacytoma, amyloidosis and sarcodosis. Several cases of mucositis in the larynx have been reported in English literature, but none have been reported in Korea. We report a case of plasma cell mucositis in the larynx with a review of literature.
Pandemia de saúde e informação: reflexões sobre o vírus da desinformação no Twitter e a contribuição direta do Presidente Jair Bolsonaro
Authors: Segurado Rosemary , Berwanger Joana
Published: August 2021

A luta contra a desinformação, travada por diferentes esferas da sociedade, como a jornalística e a política, ainda se apresenta de forma ambígua e nebulosa. Não há fórmula exata que delimite o caminho do combate às fake news. Durante a pandemia da COVID-19, a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) criou um novo termo para definir a enxurrada de desinformação: desinfodemia. As informações distorcidas, no entanto, não se limitam aos portais de notícias falsas e aos chamados bots. Importantes figuras políticas, como o presidente brasileiro Jair Bolsonaro, também tem publicado conteúdo de cunho enganoso ou malicioso. A fim de combater a desinformação, a plataforma Twitter decidiu remover, em março de 2020, duas publicações do perfil de Bolsonaro. Neste artigo, estudaremos o caso, a fim de entender em que ponto estamos na luta contra a desinformação e de que maneiras ela está sendo encaminhada no Brasil.
Humanização e direito à educação através da biblioterapia
Authors: Kovaliczn Nadal Lisandra Maria , Kano Ivan Takashi , Rodrigues de Mello Jeniffer Cristina
Published: August 2021

A falta de acesso nos leva a pensar nas atuais formas em que um livro pode chegar a uma pessoa. O fator econômico influencia na obtenção do material físico e eletrônico igualmente, visto que há o acesso a alguns materiais online, porém é necessário o conhecimento e os meios para acessá-los. Durante anos os estudos literários estiveram focados no escritor e na obra, criando a figura do leitor ideal. Mas a prática de meios alternativos de leitura, como a biblioterapia, pode atrair “leitores reais”. O ato de ler, quando promovido fora das tradicionais salas de aula e bibliotecas, permite a descoberta de características comuns e diferenças entre os indivíduos, incentivando tanto a fantasia como a consciência da realidade objetiva, e proporcionando elementos para a construção de uma postura crítica e de alternativas aos dilemas enfrentados pelo ser humano. Sendo assim, o projeto de extensão Biblioterapia: desenvolvendo laços com livros, desenvolvido pela biblioteca do Instituto Federal do Paraná (IFPR) Campus Jaguariaíva em parceria com o Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS) I Vovó Tonica, teve como objetivo principal proporcionar o compartilhamento de experiências entre pacientes, servidores e discentes através da biblioterapia, incentivando a leitura como atividade terapêutica e apresentando a realidade dessa parcela da população à comunidade acadêmica. Constatou-se que, através da biblioterapia, as mulheres atendidas pelo CAPS tiveram acesso à educação de maneira não convencional em um ambiente de acolhimento. Além de assegurado seu direito à saúde, puderam estabelecer uma relação de empatia e humanização.
Fitossociologia da Araucaria angustifolia (Bert.) Kuntze em Área de Relevante Interesse Ecológico, Pato Branco, Paraná
Authors: Pereira da Silva Emanueli , Pelizzarro Luciana
Published: August 2021

A espécie arbórea Araucaria angustifolia é uma Gimnosperma que apresenta caráter dominante nas formações florestais onde é encontrada. Embora possua importante papel ecológico no seu ecossistema e no estabelecimento de novos reflorestamentos, encontra-se na Lista Oficial de Espécies Ameaçadas de Extinção. Essa condição mostra a importância das unidades de conservação para protegê-la. Esta pesquisa objetivou analisar a fitossociologia da espécie arbórea Araucaria angustifolia de um fragmento de Floresta Ombrófila Mista da Área de Relevante Interesse Ecológico (Ariê) do Buriti, localizada na cidade de Pato Branco, Paraná. Utilizou-se a metodologia de múltiplas parcelas para determinar a área amostral, a qual foi representada por dezesseis parcelas quadradas (50 x 50 m), onde foram coletados dados para determinação de frequência, dominância e densidade da espécie A. angustifolia. Resultados mostraram que a espécie alvo apresentou densidade relativa de 6,54%; densidade absoluta de 1,0 ind/ha; frequência absoluta de 81,25 % e dominância absoluta de 0,38 m²/ha.
Gestão Fiscal como Determinante da Transparência Fiscal Ativa: Um Estudo nos Municípios Paraibanos
Authors: Santos Leandro da Costa , Machado Mácia Reis
Published: August 2021

Objetivo: Analisar de que maneira a Gestão Fiscal influencia a Transparência Fiscal Ativa nos municípios paraibanos.

Fundamento: Mesmo existindo diversas leis direcionadas para a promoção de uma melhor transparência das informações governamentais, estabelecendo prazos e níveis mínimos de informações a serem disponibilizadas, assim como penalidades, ainda se observa um baixo nível de transparência, conforme evidenciam os relatos empíricos. Dessa maneira, a presente pesquisa alicerçou-se nas teorias da Agência, Escolha Pública e do Gerenciamento de Impressão para atingir seu objetivo, uma vez que em sinergia, estas teorias explicam que na busca por seus interesses pessoais, o gestor público tende a escolher ações que maximizem a sua reeleição ou que mantenham o seu partido político no poder, direcionando esforços para o gerenciamento das informações que serão disponibilizadas ao cidadão, buscando transparecer informações positivas e que causem uma boa impressão e ocultando informações negativas que causem má impressão.

Método: Para estimar a relação entre as variáveis utilizou-se a regressão pooled OLS com dados em painel, utilizando modelos com e sem defasagem para as variáveis independentes. O recorte temporal foi de 2013 a 2016, devido a disponibilidade de dados. A amostra compreendeu 157 municípios paraibanos, o que representa cerca de 70% do total de municípios.

Resultados: Os resultados evidenciam relação positiva entre a Gestão Fiscal do Gasto com Pessoal e Liquidez e o Índice de Transparência Fiscal Ativa, corroborando com o que discorrem as teorias da Agência, Escolha Pública e Gerenciamento de Impressão. Assim, quanto melhor a Gestão Fiscal nestas dimensões, melhor é a transparência dada as informações, uma vez que a divulgação de resultados positivos gera uma imagem melhor do gestor público (agente) perante o cidadão/eleitor (principal), melhorando a sua chance de reeleição ou o mantimento de seu partido político no poder. De maneira geral a pesquisa conclui que a Gestão Fiscal dos Municípios paraibanos influi na sua Transparência Fiscal Ativa e que as leis e normas não garantem, sozinhas, o nível adequado de transparência.

Contribuições: Analisar pela ótica das teorias da Agência, Escolha Pública e Gerenciamento de Impressão a Transparência Fiscal dos municípios paraibanos, proporcionando assim um panorama maior na análise deste assunto, o qual detém ramificações políticas, econômicas e sociais que afetam a vida de milhões de indivíduos.