bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal or cyclical pattern in short-term postoperative outcomes of colorectal cancer? A time series analysis.
Authors: Martín-Arévalo José , Moro-Valdezate David , García-Botello Stephanie , Pérez-Santiago Leticia , Casado-Rodrigo David , Izquierdo-Moreno Ana , Garzón-Hernández Luisa-Paola , Castillejos-Ibáñez Francisco , Sánchez-Lara José Saúl , Pla-Martí Vicente
Published: May 2024

Purpose
To identify a cyclical pattern in short-term postoperative outcomes after colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery across the year.
Methods
Observational study including all consecutive patients diagnosed with CRC who underwent oncological surgery between January 2012 and December 2023. A time series study was performed to identify a possible cyclic pattern of postoperative complications. Non-supervised learning techniques were used to identify months of surgery with similar outcome variables in the time series. Multivariable analysis with logistic binary regression was conducted to identify independent risk factors for postoperative complications.
Results
A total of 1576 patients met the inclusion criteria. The postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 41.1% and 3.7%, respectively. A cyclical pattern was identified, suggesting that postoperative complications were periodically higher in some months across the year. Three different clusters were identified. Group 1: January, April, July, and August; Group 2: February, May, September, November, and December; and Group 3: March, June, and October. No differences in baseline characteristics were found between clusters. Group 3 presented the highest rate of anastomotic leak (p ≤ 0.001;OR = 1.61, 95%CI = 1.30–2.00), unnoticed perforation p = 0.027;OR = 1.86, 95%CI = 1.18–2.93), diffuse postoperative peritonitis (p = 0.018;OR = 1.50, 95%CI = 1.10–2.04) and needed more postoperative reoperations (p = 0.013;OR = 1.33, 95%CI = 1.07–1.65). Multivariate analysis revealed male sex (p = 0.002), duration of operation (p = 0.017) and month grouping (p ≤ 0.001) as independent risk factors for anastomotic leak.
Conclusion
Postoperative complications after CRC surgery follow a cyclical pattern, but without seasonal distribution. Three well-defined clusters with different postoperative outcomes have been identified. Month cluster was one of the independent risk factors for anastomotic leak.
Assess the Efficacy of Combination Therapy for Fungal Otitis Externa
Authors: Li Yan , Bai Guangping , Jin Yonggang
Published: May 2024

Purpose: assess the efficacy of sodium bicarbonate solution and perisone cream combination therapy in the treatment of fungal otitis externa.
Methods: The experimental group was administered a combination of sodium bicarbonate solution and perisone cream, whereas the control group was administered saline and perisone cream. The cleanliness of the external ear canal was assessed using endoscopic Visual Analog Scale（Visual Analog Scale）scores before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis was conducted to evaluate and compare the VAS scores at various time points and levels, with the goal of determining the effectiveness of combining sodium bicarbonate solution with perisone cream for the treatment of fungal otitis externa.
Results: The experimental group exhibited a higher level of treatment efficacy than the control group did. Notably, significant differences in VAS scores were observed between the two groups on the 4th day (t = -4.391, p < 0.001) and the 7th day (t = -5.754, p < 0.001), indicating consistent superiority of the therapeutic effect in the experimental group. Specifically, at the end of the 7th day of treatment, the experimental group demonstrated significantly better efficacy than the control group in terms of the mild score (t = -5.101, p < 0.001).
Conclusions: The use of sodium bicarbonate solution along with perisone cream has proven to be highly effective in treating fungal otitis externa. This underscores the importance of expanding the adoption of this therapeutic approach, highlighting its potential for widespread application.
Beetroot juice improves performance in recreational runners without participation of antioxidant activity: a randomized blind double and controlled study
Authors: de França Ana Carla Lima , de Sousa Bruno Rafael Virginio , Toscano Lydiane Tavares , Sena Klécia de Farias , Filho Eder Jackson Bezerra de Almeida , Costa Matheus da Silveira , Pereira Reabias de Andrade , Biasoto Aline Camarão Telles , Silva Alexandre Sérgio
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Beetroot improves the performance of athletes mainly due to the action of nitrate, but it is also rich in antioxidants, and this juice property has been little explored. Thus, this study investigated the effects of beetroot juice on physical performance, nitrite plasmatic and oxidative stress in recreational runners.
Method: Eighteen males recreational runners (38.1 ± 8.1 years, VO2 max 55.4 ± 7.2 ml.kg.min) performed a test until exhaustion on a treadmill at 80% of the VO2 max two hours after ingested of 140 ml of beetroot juice (8.2 mmol of NO3-) or control drink in cross over fashion. Blood samples were performed at baseline (before supplementation), pre-exercise (2 hours after supplementation) and immediately post-exercise to analyze plasma nitrite (NO), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).
Result: Running time to exhaustion was 17.5 ± 2.5% higher with juice intake (BTJ: 61.3 ± 18.4 vs. CON: 54.1 ± 19.5 minutes, p = 0.00). The increase in performance was accompanied by an increase in plasma nitrite pre-exercise (BTJ: 16.3 ± 7.4 μM vs. CON: 11.6 ± 5.0 μM, p = 0.00) and post-exercise (BTJ: 16.9 ± 4.7 μM, vs. 12.2 ± 7.4 μM, p = 0.00). There was no significant difference between groups in MDA, TAC, CK, LDH.
Conclusion: Beetroot juice improvement of performance in a race test until exhaustion however without any antioxidant or oxidative stress participation. Trial registration number and date of registration: RBR-9ydn4bn, June 09, 2022.
Effect of Peer Facilitation in Anatomy Small Group Curriculum: Academic Performance, Long-Term Retention, and Leadership Development
Authors: Grachan Jeremy , Li Phoebe , Asri Rijul , Holan George , Traba Christin , Chen Sophia
Published: May 2024

Small group active learning has proven to enhance learning outcomes, with peer-assisted learning and facilitation being two important modalities in fostering active participation and leadership. This study introduced a student peer facilitator role in an anatomy small-group curriculum for pre-clerkship medical students and explored its impact on academic performance, leadership development, and long-term retention. Students were required to rotate through this unstructured facilitator role and lead their small group during their designated sessions. Data collection methods included pre-course and post-course surveys, post-session group reflection forms, individual quiz grades, and content-based surveys sent one month after each quiz. Overall, the data revealed a significant increase in quiz averages across the curriculum for facilitators (n = 19) compared to participants (n = 70), despite having no notable increase in preparation time. Facilitators (n = 23) also reported improved confidence in various leadership skills. A majority of participants reported that facilitation increased their understanding of the content and improved their group dynamics during the discussion period. This study was unable to identify any significant benefits to long-term retention for either facilitators or participants. In all, this study suggests that an unstructured peer facilitation paradigm can be an effective way to develop knowledge and leadership skills for medical students, and future studies should explore ways to improve knowledge retention through a structured facilitator role.
Substance use and mental health factors associated with self-reported higher risk cannabis use among people with HIV screened in primary care
Authors: Mian Maha N. , Sarovar Varada , Levine Tory , Lea Alexandra , Leibowitz Amy , Luu Mitchell , Flamm Jason , Hare C.B. , Horberg Michael , Young-Wolff Kelly , Phillips Kristina , Silverberg Michael , Satre Derek
Published: May 2024

Background
While cannabis use is prevalent among people with HIV (PWH), factors associated with higher-risk use require further study. We examined factors associated with indicators risk for cannabis use disorder (CUD) among PWH who used cannabis.
Methods
Participants included adult (≥ 18 years old) PWH from 3 HIV primary care clinics in Kaiser Permanente Northern California who reported past three-month cannabis use through the computerized Tobacco, Alcohol, Prescription medication, and other Substance use (TAPS) screening. Primary outcome was TAPS cannabis score (range 1–3), categorized as any use (1) and higher risk for CUD (≥ 2). Measures included sociodemographics (age, sex, race, neighborhood deprivation index [NDI]), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), HIV RNA, CD4 cell counts, higher risk tobacco use (TAPS tobacco score ≥ 2), depression, and anxiety symptoms. Unadjusted and multivariable logistic regression examined factors associated with higher risk for CUD.
Results
Of the complete sample (N = 978; 94.1% Male; 58.3% White; Age Mode=51–60), 35.8% reported higher risk for CUD. Unadjusted models indicated younger age, Black race, higher CCI, depression, anxiety, and higher risk tobacco use were associated with higher risk, while only Black race (OR = 1.84, 95% CI[1.29, 2.63]), anxiety (OR = 1.91, 95% CI[1.22, 2.98]), and higher risk tobacco use (OR = 2.27, 95% CI[1.47, 3.51]) remained significant in the multivariable model.
Conclusions
Black race, anxiety and tobacco use, but not HIV clinical markers, were associated with higher risk for CUD among PWH. Clinical efforts to screen and provide interventions for preventing CUD alongside anxiety and tobacco use among PWH should be evaluated.
Fabrication of a Solid-Contact Ion-Selective Electrode for Determination of Silver Sulfadiazine in Combination with Sodium Hyaluronate: Assessment of Whiteness and Greenness Profile
Authors: Ibrahim Manal , Ramadan Nesrin K. , Ibrahim Magda M. , Boltia Shereen A.
Published: May 2024

Potentiometric sensors were designed with a focus on rapid, environmentally friendly, cost-efficient, and highly specific detection. These sensors were specifically tailored for the analysis of silver sulfadiazine (SSD) when combined with sodium hyaluronate (SH) in their combined dosage form. The manufacturing process involved a two-step optimization procedure. Initially, different ionophores were evaluated to enhance the selectivity of the sensors, with Calix-4 demonstrating the highest specificity for SSD. The subsequent phase involved incorporating a layer of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) between the calix-4 polymeric membrane and the solid-contact screen-printed electrode (SPE). This MWCNT layer served as an ion-to-electron transducer, improving electrode potential constancy by mitigating drift, likely attributed to its hydrophobic nature, preventing a water layer to be formed at the interface between the screen-printed electrode (SPE) and the polymeric ion-sensing membrane. The characterized SSD sensor, developed following IUPAC recommendations with high selectivity for SSD determination in combination with SH in their dosage form. The MWCNT sensor exhibited high accuracy 99.94% ± 0.413 in linear range from 1.0 × 10− 5 to 1.0 × 10− 2 M with LOD of 2.0 × 10− 5 M. The slope was calculated from the linear part of the graph and was found to be 61.029 mV/decade. To scrutinize the health and environmental ramifications of the developed technique in comparison with a documented approach, diverse assessment techniques such as Eco-scale points, GAPI, AGREE, and RGB12 were employed for greenness and whiteness evaluation.
Secure Multigroup Multicast Cell-Free Massive MIMO Transmission in the Presence of Phase Noise
Authors: zhang xianyu , Luo Yingguang , Zou Zili , An Kang , Wang Xiaoyu , Yang Hua , Wang Wei
Published: May 2024

This paper aims to explore the secrecy analysis and power resource allocation in multigroup multicast cell-free massive MIMO system with multi-antenna users in the presence of phase noise. Considering the presence of an active multiple-antenna eavesdropper, minimum mean squared error (MMSE) and distributed conjugate beamforming are exploited for channel estimation and downlink multicast transmission. Leveraging on random matrix theory, the analytical closed-form expression of the achievable secrecy rate is provided. The derived results enable to evaluate the effects of various parameters, which reveals the secrecy performance is degraded by phase noise and enhanced by adopting multi-antenna configuration. Analytical results illustrate that phase noise at users imposes more severe influence than that on access points (APs). In addition, it reveals that security of the concerned network is also restricted by the transmit power of the eavesdropper. Specifically, this work formulates the power allocation as a nonconvex optimization problem which enables to maximize the minimum achievable rate. Then, one iterative optimization algorithm is adopted to solve this problem based on continuous convex approximation. Finally, numerical results corroborate the derived expression and findings, and also verify the effectiveness of the proposed power control algorithm.
Novel sources of resistance/tolerance to orthotospoviruses in Lactuca germplasm identified via field exposure to viruliferous vectors and in greenhouse mechanical transmission assays
Authors: Jorge Tiago Silva , Lima Mirtes Freitas , Cabral Cleia Santos , Fontes Maria Geane , Tavares Águeda Gonçalves , Vivas Marcelo , Fonseca Maria Esther de Noronha , Boiteux Leonardo Silva
Published: May 2024

The ‘spotted wilt’ disease (induced by a complex of orthotospoviruses) is one of the main biotic constraints of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) production in South America. Genetic resistance to orthotospoviruses is the most practical and sustainable management strategy due to the low efficiency of chemical control of their thrips vectors. Thus far, conventional breeding sources of resistance have been detected in the genus Lactuca only to tomato spotted wilt orthotospovirus (TSWV) and Impatiens necrotic spot orthotospovirus (INSV). However, the major sources of TSWV and INSV resistance proved to be highly susceptible to Brazilian isolates of groundnut ringspot orthotospovirus (GRSV), which is the main orthotospovirus under Neotropical conditions. Herein, we evaluated the reaction to GRSV and TSWV isolates of a diverse germplasm collection (comprising 65 Lactuca accessions) under open-field conditions with natural GRSV inoculum. Nine accessions with superior levels of performance under field conditions (incidence below 20%) were subsequently selected for a set of experiments using controlled mechanical inoculation with three GRSV and two TSWV isolates. Sources of immune-like resistance were detected only for TSWV isolates but not for GRSV in greenhouse assays. However, three accessions displayed significantly lower GRSV incidence even under high temperature regimens. Additional experiments are necessary to verify the presence of vector-interfering traits in the accessions that displayed exclusively field-resistance/tolerance. This is the first study reporting the detection of novel sources of simultaneous field resistance/tolerance against GRSV and TSWV isolates, thus representing potential donors of genes for incorporation into elite inbred lines and cultivars of lettuce.
Development of a visual loop-mediated isothermal amplification method to detect environmental DNA of the giant water bug Kirkaldyia deyrolli in the field
Authors: Takahashi Jun-ichi , Ohba Shin-ya
Published: May 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is an important tool for assessing the population status and distribution of the threatened species, whose habitats have been declining or becoming fragmented. In this study, we developed a visual loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for the on-site detection of the eDNA of the giant water bug Kirkaldyia deyrolli in freshwater habitats. Species-specific primers were designed based on the mitochondrial DNA sequence of K. deyrolli, specifically targeting the cytochrome C oxidation enzyme subunit II (COII) gene. The effectiveness of these primers was confirmed using turbidity and visual LAMP tests, which demonstrated their high specificity and sensitivity. Field tests were conducted using commercial portable equipment, allowing eDNA extraction and visual LAMP reactions to be performed directly at various pond sites. The results revealed rapid and accurate detection within 30 min, demonstrating the potential of this method for the quick assessment of the presence of K. deyrolli in natural habitats. This technique offers a cost-effective and rapid alternative to real-time PCR, thereby directly enabling effective conservation efforts in the field.
Modeling the Impacts of Coastal Land Use Scenarios on Ecosystem Services Restoration in Southwest Ghana, West Africa
Authors: Kankam Stephen , Koo HongMi , Inkoom Justice Nana , Fürst Christine
Published: May 2024

Urbanization is a key driver of coastal habitats degradation in West Africa. Habitat restoration is strongly advocated to mitigate urbanization impacts in West African coastal areas. However, knowledge on the application of scenarios to envision land use patterns and ecosystem services (ES) supply in this region is still lacking in scientific literature. In this study, we applied land use scenario modelling to provide recommendations for habitat restoration planning and associated ES supply in coastal socio-ecological systems. Specifically, four land use scenarios (Urbanization Scenario (UBS), Urban Greening Scenario (UGS), Plantation Agriculture Scenario (PLAS) and Landscape Restoration (LRS)) were developed for the coastal zone of Southwest Ghana. Their impacts on land use patterns and ES (food, fuelwood, carbon sequestration and recreation benefit) were assessed and visualized by integrating benefits transfer and experts’ knowledge into a spatially explicit modelling platform. The simulated results showed that UBS would decrease the supply of food, fuelwood, carbon sequestration and recreation benefits in the region. LRS would create negative synergies between food and carbon sequestration but this relationship reversed to positive synergies with future intensification of restoration. Our findings also showed that LRS could lead to expansion of mixed swamp forests, no change in the spatial extent of palm swamp forests and decline of mangrove swamps. On this basis, we recommend planning regulations which target swamp forests in the region for enhanced protection and restoration in order to safeguard these critical coastal habitats and avert their future degradation due to urbanization.
Understanding Industrial Waste Disposal Tax and Factors that Halted its Expansion from the Perspective of Interregional Waste Transfer and Strategic Interdependence among Local Governments
Authors: Tamura Natsumi , Fukasawa Eiji
Published: May 2024

This study clarifies the mechanism of the expansion of the introduction of the industrial waste disposal tax as a non-statutory earmarked tax by prefectures in Japan since FY2002. It further clarifies the reasons for the subsequent suspension of this expansion. First, we confirm strategic interdependence by estimating reaction functions based on panel data of 47 prefectures. Second, we employ established methodology to explain the impact of taxes on the amount of industrial waste transferred among prefectures. Evidently, the expansion by FY2007 was likely due to yardstick competition among prefectures than a spillover effect caused by interregional transfer of industrial waste owing to taxation. When considering the results of estimation based on the Probit model, we find that prefectures halted tax introduction after FY2008 following Tokyo and Osaka Prefecture’s refusal to do the same, and also because of the industrial structure of each prefecture, among other factors.
JEL codes: H23, H71, H77
Assessment of water needs in the lower Dnipro sub-basin following the destruction of the Kakhovka Reservoir
Authors: Khoriev Mykhailo , Karamushka Viktor , Huliaieva Oksana , Kuns Brian
Published: May 2024

The paper describes the purposes of the Kakhovka reservoir, which was the final in a series of large reservoirs created out of the Dnipro River in Ukraine. Importantly the paper presents the water consumption balances of the reservoir prior to its destruction on June 6, 2023. This consumption is divided up by economic sector – energy, agriculture, fishing, industry, transport, and household use and also with details on inter- and intra-annual water demand trends and variations (prior to destruction). The water needed to maintain important ecosystems in the reservoir and south of the now destroyed dam is also accounted for. This overview of water consumption is then used as input in an analysis of how prospective water-uses of the Dnipro River, including water needed to maintain important ecosystems, can be met given the situation now where the Dnipro River still exists, but the reservoir and dam, which were important for regulating and maintaining flow-rates and water-levels at different times of the year, do not exist at the moment.
A novel method for predicting local plastic mechanical properties of metal structures by integrating microstructure and instrumented indentation technique
Authors: Zhang Yubiao , Xue He
Published: May 2024

Most important mechanical structures produce complex variations in local material mechanical properties during molding and in-service processes. Accurate testing of material mechanical properties is fundamental to structural integrity assessment. Instrumented indentation technique (IIT) plays a critical role in on-site testing of local structural mechanical properties. However, establishing a precise correlation between the indentation response and uniaxial stress-strain remains challenging in IIT. In this study, we utilized finite element inversion method to explore the quantitative relationship between the indentation response and plastic mechanical properties. Considering that the plastic deformation stages of these metals may exhibit either linear hardening or power-law hardening behavior, a single constitutive model cannot meet the accuracy requirements of IIT. Hence, methods for acquiring mechanical properties suitable for power-law hardening and linear hardening were established respectively based on the analysis of the microstructures of materials exhibiting different hardening behaviors. An integrated IIT approach, considering both microstructure and corresponding material constitutive models, was proposed.Moreover, the influence of elemental composition on microstructure and hardening behavior was investigated. The accuracy of the method was validated with various materials, including austenitic stainless steel, structural steel, and low-alloy steel. Given the universality and reliability of this approach, it is expected to provide theoretical and technical references for the advancement of IIT and structural integrity assessment in important mechanical structures.
Finance, Economic Growth, ICT, Renewable Energy, and Environmental Quality in BRICS and Non-BRICS Emerging Markets
Authors: Nnaji Kennady Kelechi , Ogboghro Vincent Ikumariegbe
Published: May 2024

This study employs several panel estimation methods to examine the dynamic relationship between financial development, economic growth, renewable energy consumption, and environmental quality in emerging markets of Africa, and Asia, and South America, comparing BRICS and non-BRICS countries. The study also considers the moderating role of ICT on the relationship between financial development, economic growth and carbon emissions. Our dataset comprises 1612 country-year panel observations on 52 emerging economies from 1991 to 2021. We find that CO2 emission is persistent in emerging markets and unobserved country specifics are relevant in the relationship between CO2 emission and its determinants. Further, our evidence confirms the existence of finance neutrality theory in emerging markets and shows that financial development is not a significant determinant of CO2 emission in both BRICS and non-BRICS countries. However, this theory appears to be operational only in the short run. Also, in the short run, only renewable energy is found to be significant determining CO2 emissions. In the long run, financial development, economic growth, and industrialization all increase CO2 emission while ICT, renewable energy consumption, and urbanization are significant in reducing CO2 emissions. However, the negative effect of renewable energy consumption is more pronounced in non-BRICS countries. Further, our empirical evidence confirms the moderating role of ICT in the relationship between CO2 emission and its determinants in emerging markets. However, it suggests that BRICS countries are more successful in using ICT as an instrument to combat climate change and CO2 emissions in BRICS compared to non-BRICS countries.
TRANSACETALIZATION OF GLYCEROL WITH 2,2-DIMETHOXYPROPANE USING ZEOLITES UNDER MILD CONDITIONS
Authors: Veiga Paula , Dias Ayres , Veloso Cláudia , Henriques Cristiane
Published: May 2024

The acetalization or transacetalization reactions produce acetals or ketals used in cosmetics, food, pharmaceuticals, and fuel additives. Besides synthesizing several products, the acetalization or transacetalization reactions can protect carbonyl groups, 1,2 and 1,3-diols in multi-step synthesis. This work studies the transacetalization of glycerol with 2,2-dimethoxypropane (2,2-DMP) to yield 2,2-dimethyl-4-hydroxymethyl-1,3-dioxolane (solketal) by catalyzing with USY, HBeta, and HZSM-5 zeolites under cleaner and mild reaction conditions (reaction temperature: 25 °C; 2,2-DMP/glycerol molar ratio: 1; reaction time: 1 h; and catalyst concentration: 0.05-5 wt.%). For catalyst concentration equal to or greater than 2,5 wt.%, glycerol conversion stabilized near 96-97% for the three zeolites tested. The product selectivities also assume a constant value, close to 97% for solketal. For the lowest concentration of catalyst, the influence of the zeolite properties on the glycerol conversion, such as acidity and the strong/weak acid site ratio, was observed. Concerning the selectivity of the products, the results suggested that it can be based on zeolite topology, active sites at the particle surface, and the relative amount of micro and mesoporous HBeta, the most selective catalyst for acetals production, was reused at least once without loss of activity and selectivity.
As reformas neoliberais e a precarização do trabalho docente na educação paulista
Authors: Ricardo Bombarda Alex
Published: May 2024

Este trabalho tem como objetivo situar as principais reformas educacionais ocorridas no estado de São Paulo nos anos 1990 para, posteriormente, avaliar o impacto dessas mudanças em relação ao sindicato e ao modo como o neoliberalismo moldou a educação e a atuação da Sindicato dos Professores do Ensino Oficial do Estado de São Paulo (APEOESP). Nossa hipótese consiste na ideia de que a APEOESP foi bastante afetada por esse conjunto de políticas neoliberais pois, além dos mecanismos institucionais utilizados no sentido de prejudicar a ação do sindicato, o neoliberalismo imprimiu um novo tipo de subjetividade que, dentre outras consequências, contribuiu para o enfraquecimento da organização sindical. A metodologia utilizada compreendeu pesquisa bibliográfica de artigos e livros que versam acerca do impacto das políticas neoliberais na área da educação, assim como boletins e dados oficiais disponíveis no site da APEOESP e da Secretaria de Educação do Estado de São Paulo (SEDUC-SP).
Quando o assunto é união estável de pessoas do mesmo sexo e aborto: respostas de crentes evangélicos
Authors: Caldeirão José Eduardo
Published: May 2024

Como o nome do dossiê sugere - teoria e prática - o presente artigo é fragmento da tese defendida junto ao Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Sociais da Unesp – Campus Marília. A temática sobre política e religião com ênfase nas pautas defendidas pela bancada evangélica na Câmara Federal a partir da interpretação de fiéis das igrejas: Assembleia de Deus – Belém e Igreja Internacional da Graça de Deus. As pautas elencadas versam sobre o aborto e a união estável de pessoas do mesmo sexo; tais pautas, amplamente discutidas em ano eleitoral, voltam para discussão uma vez que o Supremo Tribunal Federal discute o prazo máximo de doze semanas para realização do procedimento e o Projeto de Lei 5167-09 que proíbe qualquer união entre pessoas do mesmo sexo. Observar-se-á como os fiéis se posicionam e quais visões de mundo são expressas e se existem diferenças entre fiéis frente ao que é pregado.
Computational Strategies in Drug Discovery: Leveraging Subtractive Genomic Analysis for Target Identification
Authors: Patil Vivek , Desai Sharav , Patel Vipul , Somase Vrushali
Published: May 2024

The utilization of In-silico subtractive genomic analysis has emerged as an important
and essential method in modern drug discovery and development since it significantly improves
the process of identifying and validating potential targets for discovering novel therapeutic
compounds to treat severe infections caused by Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) - pathogenic
species. This review provides a complete overview of the methodology, advantages, disadvantages,
and prospects, associated with subtractive genomic research in the context of drug
discovery and development. The initial phase of analysis encompasses the retrieval of data,
which serves as a foundation for the subsequent data mining process in Phase 1. After data mining,
Phase 2 utilizes subtractive channels for the target's non-homology and essentiality analysis.
Phase 3 of the study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of prospective targets
by their qualitative characterization. Further, Phase 4 of the study emphasizes on conducting
structure-based analyses, which involves the determination, refinement, evaluation, and validation
of three-dimensional structures of the target proteins, along with their active site prediction
and selection of the novel therapeutic compounds against that active site on the obtained targets
through virtual screening and docking studies by utilizing various databases and servers. The
therapeutic compounds obtained can be then validated by in vitro and in vivo testing, thereby
establishing a connection between the computational predictions and real applications.
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Arthritis Activity of Quercetin: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chaudhary Shikha , Sharma Shaweta , Fuloria Shivkanya , Sharma Pramod Kumar
Published: May 2024

This comprehensive exploration delves into the multifaceted attributes of quercetin, a
flavonoid with extensive health-promoting potential. The review navigates through its fundamental
properties, encompassing its chemical structure, classification as a flavonoid, and its natural
prevalence in various sources. Addressing solubility, stability, and bioavailability challenges, the
investigation delves into innovative isolation techniques, including solvent extraction, solid-phase
extraction, natural deep eutectic solvents, supercritical fluid extraction, microwave-assisted extraction,
column chromatography, and high-performance thin-layer chromatography. Transitioning into
pharmacological implications, the study unveils quercetin's roles in anti-inflammatory pathways,
antioxidant effects, and immune modulation, reflecting its versatile significance in health
management. The review highlights its impact on wound healing processes and its potential to
mitigate arthritis, elucidating its holistic contributions. Culminating in an exploration of recent
studies, the analysis underscores quercetin's remarkable anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritis activities,
reflecting its substantial potential across various ailments. The review concludes by projecting
future trajectories, emphasizing prospects for an advanced understanding of quercetin's mechanisms,
sustainable extraction techniques, clinical integration, and exploration of synergistic combinations.
Collectively, this review investigation underscores quercetin's dynamic role at the intersection
of natural compounds and medicinal applications, offering profound implications for well-
being and health enhancement.
Construction and Identification of a Human Colorectal Adenoma Epithelial Cell Line by SV40 Large T-Antigen Transfection
Authors: Meng Xiangxue , Han Xinyue , Lin Xiangying , Li Guanhong , Wang Jingnan , Sun Ao , Fu Xiaochen , Xu Bowen , Yang Donghua , Wu Yanping , Zhang Min , Fu Xiaoling
Published: May 2024

Background:

Colorectal adenoma represents the critical step in the development of colorectal
cancer. The establishment of an immortalized epithelial cell line of colorectal adenoma of
human origin would provide a tool for studying the mechanism of precancerous lesions, screening
the efficacy of novel drugs, and constructing in vivo disease models. Currently, there is no commercially
available stable supply of epithelial cells from precancerous lesions.

Aims:

This study aimed to establish a natural LHPP low-expressing precancerous epithelial cell
line by SV40-LT antigen gene transfection.

Methods:

Simian vacuolating virus 40(SV40), SV40-LT overexpressed lentivirus vector, was
transfected into primary human colorectal adenomatous polyp epithelial cells. The transfected
cells were screened, and the screened cells were amplified to obtain the epithelial cell line: IHCRA-
CELL. The cells were identified by morphological observation, cell proliferation, Quantitative
real-time PCR (qPCR), and Short Tandem Repeats (STR) experiments. Morphologically, the
cells showed epithelial-like characteristics, such as polygon shape, desmosomes mitochondria,
and strong positive keratin staining. There was no significant difference between the transfected
cells and the primary cells. Through the STR identification experiment, no matching cell lines
were found in the cell lines retrieval.

Conclusion:

We successfully established a natural LHPP low-expressing precancerous epithelial
cell line by SV40-LT antigen gene transfection, which has been patented and is now preserved in
the Chinese Typical Culture Preservation Center. It was verified that the transformed cells maintained
the phenotype and biological characteristics of epithelial cells. This cell line can be used to
study the mechanism of precancerous lesions, screen the efficacy of novel drugs, and construct in
vivo disease models.
Transferosomes: Advancing Vesicular Drug Delivery Systems for Dermatological Disorders - A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , kumar Amit , Islam Md Moidul , Gupta G.D. , Kumar Manish
Published: May 2024

The human skin is the largest organ, is a vital interface with the external environment,
and maintains homeostasis through its layered structure of epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis.
The epidermis forms a strong barrier against microorganisms, and the dermis consists of essential
components like collagen and melanin, and the hypodermis aids in insulation and energy storage.
The skin diseases, spanning the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, include psoriasis, dermatitis,
acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging. The nanocarrier-based drug delivery, particularly
transferosomes, shows promise in treating dermatological conditions. Transfersomes are composed
of phospholipids and edge activators, and navigate skin structures with flexibility, enhancing
drug permeation. They offer continuous drug release, accommodating both lipophilic and hydrophilic
drugs, and respond to osmotic gradients, optimizing transdermal delivery. Despite being
non-invasive, formulation challenges and stability issues require attention. Studies demonstrate
transferosomes' efficacy in treating conditions like acne, psoriasis, and melasma, demonstrating
their potential for targeted drug delivery and overcoming conventional limitations in dermatology.
Chronic anticoagulation therapy and acute hip trauma
Authors: Becken Sarah Cathrine , Ayerh George , Mester Sándor , Wiegand Norbert
Published: May 2024

Regardless of the association between hip fracture surgery and mortality, morbidity and bleeding risks, there are still significant contradictions in various published articles concerning hip fracture surgery outcomes when patients are prescribed anticoagulant medication. The primary objective of this study was to investigate if patients prescribed anticoagulants experienced delayed surgery when compared to non-users. The secondary goal was to investigate if patients prescribed anticoagulants underwent an extended hospital stay and complications such as increased bleeding, mortality and a higher rate of comorbidities when compared to non-users. Data from proximal hip fracture patients were prospectively collected at a level I university trauma center. From 1 January, 2020, through 1 January, 2021, 519 eligible patients were identified. Anticoagulant medication upon admission, time prior to surgery, hospitalized days, 30-day mortality rates, 1-year mortality, blood transfusion requirement and various comorbidities were noted. 222 of the 519 hip fracture patients were prescribed anticoagulants. Of the 222 patients, 75% were females and 25% were males. In total, 46% required a blood transfusion, with no significant differences between the anticoagulated and non-anticoagulated patients. 50% of the anticoagulated group and 42% of the control group required perioperative blood transfusion. Neither the 30-day nor the 1-year mortality rate showed statistically significant differences between the groups. However, the time to surgery and the length of hospital stay was significantly longer in the anticoagulated group. Comorbidities were found in 87% of the patients: in 95% of the anticoagulated group and in 81% of the non-anticoagulated group. Patients prescribed anticoagulants at the time of hip fracture experienced delayed surgery, longer hospital stays and more comorbidities when compared to patients not on anticoagulants. Neither a blood transfusion requirement, 30-day mortality rate nor a 1-year mortality rate showed no significant difference between the two cohorts.
Psychological treatment of neurotraumatic injuries – crisis intervention in acute care
Authors: Szeifert Noémi Mónika
Published: May 2024

Patients who have suffered a neurotraumatic injury undergo severe physical and psychological trauma, which in many cases also traumatizes their relatives. Severe physical trauma and its long-term consequences have a significant impact on the lives of the people affected and their relatives. Acute health care, as well as the various periods of prolonged hospitalization, are a major physical and psychological challenge for both patients and their relatives. Patients who have suffered severe physical trauma are cared for by a multidisciplinary trauma team, which includes psychological support, too, in line with international professional guidelines. The involvement of psychologists and psychiatrists should be an integral part of acute care in the case of acute stress disorder and early-onset depression. The acute onset of psychological symptoms and the potential for long-term psychological disturbances warrant crisis intervention as close as possible in time and space to the critical event following the traumatic event. In the case of severe somatic trauma, combined therapy (pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy) can be used to relieve these symptoms and timely crisis intervention can reduce psychological symptoms and prevent the development of more serious psychopathologies (post-traumatic stress syndrome, depressive symptoms, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders), which in the long term can significantly impair quality of life and the risk of suicide. Providing regular psychological support helps the patient to adapt to the hospital environment and treatment, improves compliance, supports cooperation with physiotherapists and prepares the patient for rehabilitation. Basic psychotherapeutic care, using a variety of methods related to medical treatments and bodily processes, ranges from crisis intervention through supportive therapy to rehabilitation. It is essential that professional psychological support should be provided for the patient who has suffered a serious physical trauma as well as their relatives.
Types of Tropical Legume Leaf Meal in Dietary Concentrate Increased the Production of Forage-finished Beef Bali Cattle
Authors: Aoetpah Aholiab , Oematan Jacobus , Manfe Manix , Sun Wenbo , Banunaek Musa , Wirawan I Gusti Komang
Published: May 2024

The objective of this experiment was to assess the production responses of forage-finished beef Bali cattle fed concentrated feed containing different types of leaf meal tropical legumes. Sixteen forage-finished male beef Bali cattle (Bos javanicus) with an average body weight of 175.20±27.85 kg and aged 1.5-2.5 years were raised for 54 days for data collection. A randomized completely block design was used, which consisted of four dietary treatments and four replicates. The dietary treatments, which were formulated to be isonitrogenous to provide 120 g/kg dry matter (DM) crude protein, included Cipelang grass (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Taiwan) as a basal diet (Con) or a control supplemented with a dietary concentrate containing either leaf meal of Gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium) 54.57% (Gliri), Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) 55.59% (Leu) or Moringa (Moringa oleifera) 40.85% (Mor). The feed intake, average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), digestibility and blood parameters were measured. The results showed that legume leaf meal supplementation significantly increased (P<0.05) feed intake, ADG, digestibility, haemoglobin and total leucocytes, while FCR was not affected (P>0.05). The highest ADG was recorded for Leu and Mor cattle, which was in line with the highest feed intake. In conclusion, forage-finished beef Bali cattle fed Cipelang grass as a basal diet grew faster when supplemented with dietary concentrate containing Moringa or Leucaena leaf meal.
Optimization of the Thickness, Water Vapour Transmission Rate and Morphology of Protein-Based Films Incorporating Glycerol and Polyethylene Glycol Plasticizers
Authors: Fahrullah Fahrullah , Kisworo Djoko , Bulkaini Bulkaini , Yulianto Wahid , Wulandani Baiq Rani Dewi , Haryanto Haryanto , Azhary Noersidiq  , Maslami Vebera , Ulkiyah Kalisom , Kartika Kartika , Rahmawati Lilik
Published: May 2024

Edible film is a thin layer that can coat food products and protect them from physical, chemical, and microbiological disturbances. This study aimed to determine the effect of the concentration ratio and different plasticizers on the thickness, water vapour transmission rate, and morphology of protein-based edible films. The study used a completely randomized design with a factorial pattern. The experiment involved two factors: Factor A, which was the whey-gelatine concentration ratio, at three levels (A1 = 1:0.5; A2 = 1:0.75; A3 = 1:1); and Factor B, which was the plasticizer, at two levels (B1 = glycerol; B2 = polyethylene glycol (PEG)). The study revealed that the water vapour transmission rate was significantly affected (P<0.01) by the interaction between whey-gelatin and different types of plasticizers. Additionally, the film thickness was significantly affected (P<0.01) by the whey-gelatine ratio, and the water vapour transmission rate was significantly affected (P<0.01) by the different types of plasticizers used. The film made from protein had a thickness of 0.282-0.357 mm, a water vapour transmission rate of 4.27-5.55 g/mm2.h, and a homogeneous surface structure resulting from the good mixing of whey and gelatin. The concentration of whey-gelatine and the use of different plasticizers can affect the thickness, WVTR, and morphology of the film. The use of glycerol as a plasticizer resulted in a greater thickness, water vapour transmission rate (WVTR), and morphology compared to those of the PEG plasticizer when the whey-gelatin concentration was 1:1.
Optimizing Muza-Smoked Salted Egg Production: A SWOT Analysis of an Empowerment Program Leveraging the Triple Helix Model
Authors: Novandinata Suwigda Agung , Azizah Siti , Manab Abdul , Djunaidi Irfan H , Rachmawati Achadiah , Indrati Rositawati , Rinanti Rosyida Fajri
Published: May 2024

Efforts to improve the quality of small and microenterprises (SMEs) depend not only on the availability of internal resources but also on innovation and worldwide regulation dynamics. The triple helix concept has become an alternative solution for improving the quality of SMEs, which consists of academicians, governments, and businesses (SMEs). Muza is an SME that is being fostered by lecturers in the Faculty of Animal Science Universitas Brawijaya in Blitar District; this SME produces smoked salted eggs and has become one of the featured products based on Blitar's Service of Fishery and Livestock Department. The communication between the academician and the Muza Management-Government on the development program was implemented separately. This research aimed to develop development strategies to increase the quality of Muza smoked salted eggs. The research was conducted in Blitar District in July 2022. The research used an explanatory method to identify problems in the field and categorize the problems into groups using the SWOT method. SWOT components are formed using in-depth interviews with the planner and implementer of the strategy, which consists of five people. The subjects were given a closed questionnaire that consisted of SWOT components. The SWOT analysis results show that the total IFE score is 4 and the EFE score is 4.45. The IE matrix shows that the empowerment strategy is on the “V” cell, which has a "hold and maintain" strategy. Thus, the programs given were not efficient, and strategic planners need to focus on product quality improvement. The design of GMP and HACCP systems is strongly recommended.
The Effect of Credit Access on Climate Change Adaptation Strategies Among Dairy Farmers in East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Nugroho Eko , Purwanti Tina Sri , Rahman Moh Shadiqur , Febrianto Nanang , Winarto Priyo Sugeng , Kamil Nila
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the critical issue of credit access and its implications for climate change adaptation among dairy farmers in East Java, Indonesia. Using survey cross-sectional data from a sample of 70 dairy farmers, this research employs a combination of probit modelling and propensity score matching (PSM) to examine the determinants of credit access and evaluate its impact on climate change adaptation. The findings indicate that credit access is positively and significantly associated with factors such as farming experience, family size, and the number of employed household members. These factors emerge as pivotal determinants shaping farmers' ability to secure credit. The analysis employing PSM further reveals a notable effect of credit access on climate change adaptation. Farmers with access to credit demonstrate a greater propensity to adopt and implement a greater number of climate change adaptation strategies. The positive association between credit access and climate change adaptation underscores the potential role of financial support in enhancing farmers' resilience to environmental challenges. This suggests that facilitating credit access for farmers could significantly contribute to promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the context of climate change. These findings have implications for policymakers, agricultural practitioners, and financial institutions. By leveraging these insights, targeted interventions can be devised to improve credit accessibility for farmers, thereby fostering effective climate change adaptation strategies within the agricultural sector.