bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel S1PR4 functional antagonist prevents nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by deactivating the NLRP3 inflammasome without causing lymphopenia
Authors: Lee Ki-Up , Koh Eun Hee , Hong Chung Hwan , Ko Myoung Seok , Kim Jae Hyun , Cho Hyunkyung , Lee Chi-Ho , Yoon Ji Eun , Yun Ji-Young , Baek In-Jeoung , Jang Jung Eun , Lee Seung Eun , Cho Yun Kyung , Baek Ji Yeon , Oh Soo Jin , Lee Bong Yong , Lim Joon Seo , Lee Jongkook , Hartig Sean , Fernandez-Checa Jose , Choi Ji Woong , Kim Sanghee
Published: November 2020

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptors (S1PRs) are a group of G protein-coupled receptors that confer a broad range of functional effects in chronic inflammatory diseases and metabolic diseases. S1PRs may also be involved in the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), but the specific subtypes involved and the mechanism of action are unclear. Here we show that the livers of various mouse models of NASH as well as Kupffer cells had a particularly strong expression of S1pr4. Accordingly, genetic depletion of S1pr4 protected the mice against hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Moreover, SLB736, a novel selective functional antagonist of SIPR4 prevented diet-induced NASH in mice without lymphopenia. S1P increased the expression of S1pr4 in Kupffer cells and activated the NLRP3 inflammasome through PLC/IP3/IP3R-dependent [Ca++] signaling. SLB736 treatment or S1pr4 depletion in Kupffer cells inhibited LPS-mediated Ca++ release and deactivated the NLRP3 inflammasome. S1PR4 antagonism may be a novel therapeutic strategy for NASH.
Right to inclusive education for children with disabilities at stake in Lithuania
Authors: Ruškus Jonas
Published: November 2020

Since 2010 Lithuania is a State Party of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities of the United Nations. The development of education policy in Lithuania as concerns the right to inclusive education for children with disabilities is analysed as well as the factual trends of education of children with disabilities in segregated and regular educational settings. Author explores the assumption that intersection of the patterns of medical model of and neoliberal mindset in educational discourse impedes the implementation of human rights standards, reasonable accommodation particularly.
Assessment of functional behavior of children with autism spectrum disorders in early age in collaboration with families and speech therapists
Authors: Grigėnaitė Julija
Published: November 2020

The aim of the research presented in this article is to reveal the possibilities of applying the methodology of the assessment of functional behavior of children with autism spectrum disorders in early age in collaboration with specialists (speech therapists) and parents. The research involved 16 speech therapists working in health and education systems.
DEVELOPMENT OF A METHOD TO DETERMINE RELATED IMPURITIES IN BROMIDE 1-(β-PHENYLETHYL)-4-AMINO-1,2,4-TRIAZOLE TABLETS
Authors: Derevianko Natalia , Skoryna Dmytro
Published: November 2020

Aim: to develop a modern method to determine related impurities in bromide 1-(β-phenylethyl)-4-amino-1,2,4-triazole tablets by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Methods: The development of a method to determine related impurities in bromide 1-(β-phenylethyl)-4-amino-1,2,4-triazole tablets involved an already developed method for the determination of 4-amino-1,2,4-triazole impurities in tablets by HPLC. The test solution and the comparison solution were prepared and chromatographed alternately according to the developed methods. At least three chromatograms were obtained for each solution for the purpose of the reliability of the study results. Results: Scientists of the Scientific-Production Association "Farmatron" jointly with the staff of the Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department of Zaporizhzhia State Medical University under the leadership of Professor Mazur I. A. obtained a new original compound – bromide 1-(β-phenylethyl)-4-amino-1,2,4-triazole (conditional name "Hypertril"), which exhibits antihypertensive, anti-ischemic and antioxidant properties. It is known that the quality of medicines largely depends on the degree of their purity. Therefore, in accordance with the regulatory documentation and quality control methods of medicines, it is mandatory to carry out tests for impurities. According to the results, the content of impurities of 4-amino-1,2,4-triazole in the tested tablets of bromide 1-(β-phenylethyl)-4-amino-1,2,4-triazole is in the range from 0.049 % to 0.195 % which meets the requirements of regulatory documentation. No peaks of unidentified impurities were detected on the chromatograms of the test solution. Conclusion: Therefore, a modern method to determine the related impurity of 4-amino-1,2,4-triazole in tablets of bromide 1-(β-phenylethyl)-4-amino-1,2,4-triazole has been developed. The methodology is reproducible, accurate and meets the requirements of regulatory documentation.
THE TACTICS OF ANTIVIRAL THERAPY FOR CHRONIC VIRAL HEPATITIS B IN PREGNANT WOMEN
Authors: Mudra Yuliia
Published: November 2020

The aim of the study.Analysis of tactics of antiviral therapy for chronic viral hepatitis b in pregnant women. Methods. Theoretical analysis of scientific literature; analysis and generalization. Statistics and comparisons. Classification of theoretical material and development of recommendations. Research results.Today, there are about 2 billion people in the world ill with a chronic infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, 350 million of whom suffer from chronic hepatitis B, and most are asymptomatic carriers of the Australian antigen (HBsAg). Up to 50 % of all new cases of hepatitis B virus infection are due to vertical infection. Despite the lack of increase in viral load during pregnancy, alanine aminotransferase tends to increase in late pregnancy and in the postpartum period. A sharp drop in postpartum corticosteroids may create favourable conditions for hepatitis B virus activation. It is emphasized that the current treatment of hepatitis B virus includes the use of antiviral drugs, where Peg-IFN is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy, lamivudine and entecavir are classified by the FDA as category C, and tenofovir and telbivudine are classified as category B. During pregnancy, it is recommended to use mainly category B drugs. Conclusions. The use of antiviral therapy in combination with immunoprophylaxis of new-borns is the optimal strategy for implementation as a universal program, as the success of such an intervention can make a significant contribution to achieving the ultimate goal of global elimination of hepatitis B virus.
OMENTIN METABOLISM AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ITS LEVEL AND THE SEVERITY OF LESIONS IN THE INTIMA-MEDIA THICKNESS OF THE CAROTID ARTERIES IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN COMBINATION WITH OBESITY
Authors: Kulynych Roman , Soloviuk Olena , Soloviuk Oleksandr
Published: November 2020

The relationship of visceral obesity and excess body weight (EBW) with the development of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and effect on quality and duration of life determine the relevance of studying this problem. The aim: to assess omentin-1 metabolism and pathophysiological relationship between its level and the severity of lesions in the intima-media thickness (IMT) of the carotid arteries in type 2 DM in combination with EBW and obesity. Materials and methods. We examined 98 people with DM, the first group consisted of 64 people with EBW and obesity, second group consisted of 34 people with normal body weight, control group – 28 healthy individuals. The concentration of omentin-1 was investigated by ELISA by solid-phase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in vitro. Ultrasound of the carotid arteries was performed in the lying position of the patient on the device MyLab50X with a linear sensor of 7 MHz with a slight deviation of the patient's head in the opposite direction. Results. Evaluation of the correlation matrix showed the presence of a positive rather strong negative connection between IMT, especially the right carotid artery and the level of omentin-1 in the blood (Rs = –0.55; p = 0.002). The largest number of individuals with omentin-1 levels from 5–10 ng / ml had significant disorders of the vascular wall (IMT from 1.0 to 1.2 mm). Conclusion. Obtained data indicate a statistically significant associative relationship between the dynamics of the predictor of cardiovascular risk – IMT with the degree of impaired expression of omentin-1.
DIREITOS DA NATUREZA E ACESSO À JUSTIÇA: A AMPLIAÇÃO DOS ATORES LEGITIMADOS EM AÇÕES COLETIVAS PARA UMA JUSTIÇA SOCIOAMBIENTAL
Authors: Bertoldi Márcia Rodrigues , Silva Roberta Fortunato
Published: November 2020

O presente estudo defende a superação das amarras existentes no âmbito processual, propondo o alargamento do rol de sujeitos que podem iniciar a busca por proteção judicial em defesa do meio ambiente para o cumprimento dos direitos da natureza. O direito de acesso à justiça deve ser amplamente assegurado pelos instrumentos processuais de um ordenamento jurídico, notadamente em se tratando de demandas coletivas. Assim, estuda-se a trajetória do pensamento humano sobre a natureza para compreender os paradigmas da ética ambiental que legitimam os direitos da natureza; os direitos da natureza, os quais incluem o reconhecimento da natureza como sujeito de direitos; e a necessidade de alargamento do rol de sujeitos legitimados, especificamente em Ação Civil Pública ambiental, para o acesso à justiça dos direitos da natureza e para a execução da justiça socioambiental. Conclui-se que o alargamento deste rol é uma oportuna estratégia para promover um acesso à justiça mais amplo e efetivo para os direitos da natureza e, como efeito, a justiça socioambiental. Utilizou-se, nesta pesquisa, o método dedutivo, revisando bibliografia e documentos como procedimento.
INDÍGENAS KAINGANG DA COMUNIDADE FOXÁ, EM LAJEADO/RIO GRANDE DO SUL: DIREITO DE ACESSO AOS BENEFÍCIOS DA PREVIDÊNCIA SOCIAL
Authors: Laroque Luís Fernando da Silva , Silva Débora Pires Medeiros da , Pinheiro Fernanda Storck
Published: November 2020

O trabalho tem por base diálogo com um servidor do Instituto Nacional do Seguro Social (INSS) a respeito dos benefícios da Previdência Social requeridos por indígenas Kaingang. Os Kaingang, segundo IBGE (2012), correspondem a cerca de 38 mil pessoas aproximadamente e a comunidade estudada, denominada de Terra Indígena Foxá, localiza-se no contexto urbano do município de Lajeado /RS.  O objetivo deste estudo consistiu em identificar os desafios do acesso aos direitos da Previdência Social por integrantes da comunidade indígena Kaingang Foxá. Do ponto de vista metodológico tratou-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa e os procedimentos metodológicos consistiram em levantamento bibliográfico, documental e pesquisa de campo acerca do acesso dos direitos da Previdência Social por indígenas, a partir de relatos de um servidor do Instituto Nacional do Seguro Social (INSS). Por fim, contatou-se que não há benefícios previdenciários destinados aos Kaingang investigados devido a sua condição de índio, devendo essa população preencher os mesmos requisitos que os não índios quando na percepção de quaisquer benefícios da Previdência Social. Contudo, devido às atividades exercidas pelos indígenas, normalmente estes são enquadrados como segurados especiais, sendo a referida qualidade comprovada através da certidão emitida pela FUNAI que descreve a condição de índio e as atividades desenvolvidas.
A CONTRIBUIÇÃO DA HERMENÊUTICA E DA FILOSOFIA DA LINGUAGEM NA ANÁLISE E FUNDAMENTAÇÃO DA INTERPRETAÇÃO E ALTERAÇÃO DO PRENOME
Authors: Sparemberger Raquel Fabiana Lopes , Bonezzi Giorgio Eduardo , John Jaime
Published: November 2020

O presente trabalho tem por objetivo analisar e fundamentar, a partir de estudos linguísticos e interpretativos, a necessidade e a possibilidade de alteração do prenome no registro civil. Para tanto, recorreu-se às bases filosóficas de especulação sobre a real possibilidade de conhecimento dos fenômenos, método pelo qual se almeja compreender qual a função da linguagem nesse processo de inteligibilidade e quais seus fatores condicionantes. Destarte, tudo isso serve para, sem a intenção de esgotamento do debate, intentar a elucidação de fato tão complexo como é a alteração do prenome, não apenas pelo viés normativo, mas, antes, considerando e fundamentando-se nos pilares sobre os quais se erige o conhecimento. Por fim, traz-se à baila uma decisão do Supremo Tribunal Federal sobre este tema, de modo a concretizar as teorias estudadas. O método de abordagem é o indutivo e a técnica de pesquisa é a bibliográfica.
O CONTROLE DO SUBSTANCIALISMO E DO DECISIONISMO NA APLICAÇÃO DA PENA
Authors: De Carvalho Salo
Published: November 2020

Resenha:
CAMPOS, Gabriel Silveira de Queirós. Aplicação da Pena e o Problema da Discricionaridade Judicial: breve estudo comparativo entre a dosimetria penal brasileira e o modelo de sentencing guidelines norte-americano e inglês. Salvador: JusPodivm, 2021 (prelo).
UM OLHAR DECOLONIAL SOBRE A TERRITORIALIDADE DOS PESCADORES TRADICIONAIS DO ANGARI
Authors: Alves Vera Lucia Santos , Acioli Moab Duarte
Published: November 2020

Este estudo aborda o pensamento decolonial como uma referência de apoio à discussão sobre os direitos de comunidades e povos tradicionais no Brasil, tomando, como base, a comunidade de pescadores do Angari, localizada no Submédio São Francisco, no sertão baiano. O objetivo é observar como a colonialidade instituiu e ainda institui a segregação de povos e comunidades tradicionais, afastando-os de seus direitos cidadãos. Também analisamos como o pensamento decolonial pode fortalecer a mudança desse cenário. Utilizamos, como metodologia, a Análise do Discurso Ecológica (ADE), teoria nascida na Escola Ecolinguística de Brasília , considerando os três elementos da Estrutura Fundamental da Língua (Povo, Língua e Território) e os Atos de Interação Comunicativa (AIC). Observamos como as colonialidades do poder, do ser e do saber, conceitos-chave no debate decolonial, têm sido responsáveis pelas tentativas de desterritorialização desses coletivos, a exemplo do que ocorre com os pescadores do Angari. Por fim, este trabalho denota a importante contribuição que a teoria do grupo Modernidade/Colonialidade - abraçada por estudiosos da Antropologia, do Direito, da Linguística e de várias outras áreas brasileiras - tem dado à intensificação pela efetiva busca dos direitos humanos no Brasil.
MINERAÇÃO EM TERRAS INDÍGENAS: A RACIONALIDADE ECONÔMICA COMO RAZÃO DO ESTADO BRASILEIRO
Authors: De Sousa Maria Sueli Rodrigues , Varão Lorena Lima Moura
Published: November 2020

O presente artigo visa discutir os impactos das atividades minerárias em terras indígenas e as garantias constitucionais dos povos indígenas que estão sendo violadas sob um manto discursivo institucional de legalidade. A discussão do artigo tem como objetivo denunciar a violação da Constituição Federal de 1988 (CF/88) e discutir sobre qual modelo de desenvolvimento ou quais modelos a CF/88 institui. O itinerário discursivo do texto se fez com diagnóstico dos impactos da mineração nas terras indígenas, discussão de cosmovisão que orienta a relação da vida humana com outras vidas e a natureza jurídica da cultura e territorialidade indígenas tratados como unicidade pelo Estado brasileiro, com destaque para as instituições que realizam o licenciamento e o poder judiciário. O texto foi produzido com pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, apresentando como resultados: impactos da mineração nas terras indígenas que aferem a incompatibilidade entre a realização da prática nos moldes ocorridos com violação de direitos fundamentais; o avanço em texto de leis que não se tornam realidade em razão de não ser considerada a cosmovisão indígena e a não inclusão ou má inclusão de povos indígenas em atos que lhes afetam diretamente.
“PACOTE DO VENENO”: PODER DO AGRONEGÓCIO E VIOLAÇÕES AOS DIREITOS À SAÚDE, À SEGURANÇA ALIMENTAR E AO MEIO AMBIENTE
Authors: Zanuto Lauren Caroline Rodrigues , Cabral Guilherme Perez
Published: November 2020

O modelo de produção agrícola adotado no Brasil, com grande concentração de renda e de terras, além do cultivo de monoculturas, voltado para a exportação, existente desde a colônia, foi ainda mais impulsionado no século XX pela chamada Revolução Verde. A implantação de maquinário e o uso de agrotóxicos, desde então, somente se intensificou. Neste artigo, assim, tratamos do “Pacote do Veneno” (Projeto de Lei nº 6.299 de 2002 e apensados) e sua proposta de flexibilização da legislação hoje vigente no que diz respeito à regulamentação para uso de comercialização destes produtos. À luz do arcabouço jurídico nacional e internacional, além de dados sobre os perigos e violações acarretadas com o uso de agrotóxicos, identificamos o conflito de interesses entre aqueles que pretendem a manutenção do poderio econômico e político do agronegócio e a proteção aos direitos à saúde, à segurança alimentar e ao meio ambiente.
Formação pedagógica no curso de Pedagogia: uma análise das políticas públicas à luz da Teoria das Representações Sociais
Authors: Costa Clara Corrêa da , Gonçalves Helenice Maia
Published: November 2020

O objetivo do trabalho foi identificar e analisar as representações sociais de formação pedagógica implícitas nas Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para o curso de Pedagogia. A pesquisa, de cunho qualitativo, foi norteada pela Teoria das Representações Sociais, desenvolvida por Serge Moscovici, associada à Teoria da Argumentação. O documento foi analisados com base no Modelo da Estratégia Argumentativa. Identificou-se que a representação social de formação pedagógica está ancorada na desarticulação entre teoria e prática, fruto de antigas cisões: o modelo que opunha o bacharel e o licenciado.
PROGRAMA ESCOLA ACESSÍVEL: A POLÍTICA E O ÂMBITO ESCOLAR
Authors: Andrade Edson Francisco de , Santos Maviael Leonardo Almeida dos
Published: November 2020

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar percepções sobre as repercussões do Programa Escola Acessível em uma escola estadual de Pernambuco/ Brasil. À luz da Análise de Conteúdo, tecemos considerações a partir de registros de observações in loco e de entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas com profissionais da educação e com alunos sobre a garantia de acessibilidades arquitetônica, comunicacional e didático-pedagógica à pessoa com deficiência no âmbito escolar. Nossas conclusões ressaltam medidas que potencializem o exercício da autonomia do aluno como eixo basilar das escolas acessíveis.
The Stabilization of Asphaltenes in Different Crude Fractions: A Molecular Approach
Authors: Lordeiro Faissen , Altoé Rodrigo , Hartmann Daniela , Filipe Eduardo , González Gaspar , Lucas Elizabete
Published: November 2020

The conditions of petroleum extraction may allow asphaltenes to precipitate, causing deposition that clogs wells, pipes and equipment, consequently reducing productivity. In this work, the solubility parameters and precipitation onset of polar fractions of heavy crudes from Brazilian fields were estimated using a simplified system of n-heptane/toluene mixtures. Asphaltenes were extracted by two different methods with regard to pressure and temperature. The samples were physically and chemically characterized, and both density (1053-1159 kg m-3) and molecular weight (1176-5316 g mol-1) were estimated based on the density of diluted asphaltenes in toluene solutions. The solubility of those fractions was studied as well as their solubility parameter (ca. 19-23 MPa0.5) based on regular solution theory, Flory-Hüggins theory and empirical correlation. The influence of asphaltene concentration (between 0.5 and 5.0 g L-1) on the solubility parameter and precipitation onset was studied, and a strong linear correlation between them was not found.
Effect of spent liquor recycle during hydrothermal carbonization on the properties of hydrochar
Authors: Xu Jie
Published: November 2020

Hydrothermal carbonization is a feasible way to convert biomass into valuable hydrochar, the recycle of spent liquor during HTC is beneficial to reduce the output of spent liquor. The effects of spent liquor recycle on the properties of hydrochar and the biogas potential of spent liquor are investigated in this study. Part of the spent liquor (50% volume fraction) was recycled four times at 220 and 240 °C HTC, respectively. The results showed that the surface area of hydrochar was in the range of 7.2–8.6 m2/g after spent liquor recycle, and the peak of -OH, C = O and C-O became more intense. The Cd2+ adsorption capacity of hydrochar was around 1.3 mg/g and it decreased by 0.02–0.15 mg/g after spent liquor recycle. The biogas yield of spent liquor kept declining from 263 to 29 mL/g-COD with each cycle of spent liquor. Our results suggest that spent liquor recycle is a promising method to improve hydrothermal carbonization process.
Using Serum Biomarkers for Identifying Unstable Carotid Plaque: Update of Current Evidence
Authors: Sofogianni Areti , Tziomalos Konstantinos , Koletsa Triantafyllia , Pitoulias Apostolos G. , Skoura Lemonia , Pitoulias Georgios A.
Published: November 2020

Carotid atherosclerosis is responsible for a great proportion of ischemic strokes. Early identification of
unstable or vulnerable carotid plaques, and therefore, of patients at high risk for stroke, is of significant medical
and socioeconomical value. We reviewed the current literature and discussed the potential role of the most important
serum biomarkers in identifying patients with carotid atherosclerosis who are at high risk for atheroembolic
stroke.
Recent In Vitro and In Silico Advances in the Understanding of Intranasal Drug Delivery
Authors: Chen John , Martin Andrew R. , Finlay Warren H.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Many drugs are delivered intranasally for local or systemic effect, typically in the form
of droplets or aerosols. Due to the high cost of in vivo studies, drug developers and researchers often turn to in
vitro or in silico testing when first evaluating the behavior and properties of intranasal drug delivery devices
and formulations. Recent advances in manufacturing and computer technologies have allowed for increasingly
realistic and sophisticated in vitro and in silico reconstructions of the human nasal airways.

Objective:

The study aims to perform a summary of advances in the understanding of intranasal drug delivery
based on recent in vitro and in silico studies.

Conclusion:

The turbinates are a common target for local drug delivery applications, and while nasal sprays are
able to reach this region, there is currently no broad consensus across the in vitro and in silico literature concerning
optimal parameters for device design, formulation properties and patient technique which would maximize
turbinate deposition. Nebulizers can more easily target the turbinates, but come with the disadvantage of
significant lung deposition. Targeting of the olfactory region of the nasal cavity has been explored for the potential
treatment of central nervous system conditions. Conventional intranasal devices, such as nasal sprays
and nebulizers, deliver very little dose to the olfactory region. Recent progress in our understanding of intranasal
delivery will be useful in the development of the next generation of intranasal drug delivery devices.
The Role of Nitric oxide (NO) Donors in the Treatment of Male Infertility
Authors: Pozzi Edoardo , Cakir Omer Onur , Muneer Asif
Published: November 2020

Male infertility is a global problem and the number of men suffering from this condition has increased
dramatically over the last decade. Currently, approximately 10–15% of couples have been affected by this
worldwide. Although this is a crucial problem, treatment options are limited and sometimes even ineffective. In
order to arrest this worrisome increase, the development of new treatment strategies has become fundamental.
Redox regulation driven by NO in reproductive biology represents a novel pathway in male infertility and it plays
a crucial role in maintaining normal fertilisation capacity. Compelling evidence states that ROS synthesis and
degradation should be in perfect balance and tightly regulated by endogenous and exogenous antioxidant enzymes.
NO donor drugs might play a beneficial role in restoring this fragile equilibrium and have shown great
potential in ameliorating overall fertilisation capacity.
Metallodrugs for the Treatment of Trypanosomatid Diseases: Recent Advances and New Insights
Authors: Navarro Maribel , Justo Rodrigo M.S. , Delgado Giset Y. Sánchez , Visbal Gonzalo
Published: November 2020

Trypanosomatid parasites are responsible for many Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). NTDs are
a group of illnesses that prevail in low-income populations, such as in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa,
Asia, and the Americas. The three major human diseases caused by trypanosomatids are African trypanosomiasis,
Chagas disease and leishmaniasis. There are known drugs for the treatment of these diseases that are used
extensively and are affordable; however, the use of these medicines is limited by several drawbacks such as the
development of chemo-resistance, side effects such as cardiotoxicity, low selectivity, and others. Therefore,
there is a need to develop new chemotherapeutic against these tropical parasitic diseases. Metal-based drugs
against NTDs have been discussed over the years as alternative ways to overcome the difficulties presented by
approved antiparasitic agents. The study of late transition metal-based drugs as chemotherapeutics is an exciting
research field in chemistry, biology, and medicine due to the ability to develop multitarget antiparasitic agents.
The evaluation of the late transition metal complexes for the treatment of trypanosomatid diseases is provided
here, as well as some insights about their mechanism of action.
Fungal Biotransformation: An Efficient Approach for Stereoselective Chemical Reactions
Authors: Pereira dos Santos Valmore Henrique , Coelho Neto Dorval Moreira , Lacerda Júnior Valdemar , Borges Warley de Souza , de Oliveira Silva Eliane
Published: November 2020

There is great interest in developing chemical technologies to achieve regioselective and stereoselective reactions since only one enantiomer is required for producing the chiral leads for drug development. These selective reactions are provided by traditional chemical synthetic methods, even under expensive catalysts and long reaction times. Filamentous fungi are efficient biocatalysts capable of catalyzing a wide variety of reactions with significant contributions to the development of clean and selective processes. Although some enzymes have already been employed in isolated forms or as crude protein extracts as catalysts for conducting selective reactions, the use of whole-cell provides advantages regarding cofactor regenerations. It is also possible to carry out conversions at chemically unreactive positions and to perform racemic resolution through microbial transformation. The current literature contains several reports on the biotransformation of different compounds by fungi, which generated chemical analogs with high selectivity, using mild and eco-friendly conditions. Prompted by the enormous pharmacological interest in the development of stereoselective chemical technologies, this review covers the biotransformations catalyzed by fungi that yielded chiral products with enantiomeric excesses published over the period 2010-2020. This work highlights new approaches for the achievement of a variety of bioactive chiral building blocks, which can be a good starting point for the synthesis of new compounds combining biotransformation and synthetic organic chemistry.
Drug Re-purposing Approach and Potential Therapeutic Strategies to Treat COVID-19
Authors: Reddy Eeda Koti , Battula Srisravanthi , Anwar Shaik , Sajith Ayyiliath M
Published: November 2020

:

The current pandemic of COVID-19 caused by SARS-Cov-2 has posed a severe threat to the whole world with its highly infectious, progressive nature with up to 10% mortality rates. The severity of the situation faced by the whole world and the lack of efficient therapeutics to treat this viral disease have led the WHO to depend on the drug-repurposing approach to tackle this major global health problem. This review aims at highlighting the various synthetic approaches employed for the synthesis of these FDA approved drugs that have been presently used for COVID-19 treatment. Additionally, a brief overview of several therapeutic strategies is also presented. This review will encourage the scientific community across the globe to come up with better and efficient synthetic protocols and also novel chemical entities along with this core with more potent activity.
Oxazolidinone-containing Hybrids with Antibacterial Activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): A Mini-review
Authors: Jiang Dan , Liu Bi , Gao Tao
Published: November 2020

The increasing danger of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and the
limited therapeutic options for invasive MRSA infections make an urgent demand for the development
of novel anti-MRSA agents. Oxazolidinone derivatives could inhibit protein synthesis by acting
on the ribosomal 50S subunit of the bacteria and prevent the formation of a functional 70S initiation
complex, so oxazolidinones are a novel class of antimicrobial agents with potential activity against a
wide range of clinically significant multidrug-resistant Gram-positive pathogens. However, oxazolidinones
such as linezolid are associated with significant adverse events, and myelosuppression represents
the main unfavorable side effects. Moreover, MRSA isolates that are resistant to oxazolidinones
have already emerged. Hybridization of oxazolidinone with other antibacterial pharmacophores has
the potential to interact with multiple targets or to counterbalance the known side effects associated
with each pharmacophore. Thus, oxazolidinone-containing hybrids are useful scaffolds for the development
of novel anti-MRSA agents. This review covers the recent advances of oxazolidinonecontaining
hybrids with anti-MRSA activity developed in the last decade to set up the direction for
the design and development of oxazolidinone-containing hybrids with high efficiency and low toxicity.
A New Approach Against Some Oral Pathogenic Bacteria Using a Chimeric Antimicrobial Peptide Derived from the Camel Milk; Lactoferrampin - Lactoferricin Chimer
Authors: Mohammadipour Hamideh Sadat , Akbari Majid , Tanhaeian Abbas , Pourgonabadi Solmaz , Sekandari Salehe , Karimian Elnaz
Published: November 2020

Objectives:

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antimicrobial effects of the recombinant chimer present
in the lactoferrampin-lactoferricin [LFA-LFC] derived from the camel milk on some oral bacteria responsible for dental
caries and endodontic failures.

Methods and Materials:

The antimicrobial activity was assessed on the Streptococcus mutans [ATCC 35668], Streptococcus
salivarius [ATCC 9222], Streptococcus oralis [ATCC 35037], and Enterococcus faecalis [ATCC 29212], using the microbroth
dilution method. The cytotoxicity analysis was done through the MTT method on the human gingival fibroblasts.
The data were reported using the descriptive methods, and were analyzed by the one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA)
and Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) test.

Results:

Results showed that the chimeric peptide had the highest bacteriostatic effect on S. salivarius with the lowest minimum
inhibitory concentration value of 1.22 μg/Ml. Also, LFA-LFC chimer was more effective against S. mutans and S. salivarius
compared to using 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash. The minimum bactericidal concentration analysis showed the
most bactericidal effect against S. mutans [1.256 μg/mL]. In spite of greater antibacterial effect on the evaluated streptococci,
this peptide showed the lower bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties against E. faecalis compared to the chlorhexidine.
Based on cytotoxicity assay, over 50% of the cells were viable in all the evaluation times demonstrating the biocompatibility
of the peptide.

Conclusion:

The LFA-LFC chimer revealed comparable or even more effective antibacterial properties compared to the
chlorhexidine against the caries-inducing bacteria with no toxicity on the human gingival fibroblast cells. So, this peptide
can be used as a safe alternative to the chlorhexidine and other chemicals in the dental applications for prevention and management
of the dental caries.
Cytotoxic and Pro-Apoptotic Activities of Diterpenoids from Zhumeria Majdae
Authors: Shakeri Abolfazl , Nejad Samira Navabi , Asili Javad , Masullo Milena , Saeidi Mansoor , Akaberi Maryam , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Najaran Zahra Tayarani
Published: November 2020

Since the ethylacetate (EtOAc) extract of the roots of Zhumeria majdae had the
potent cytotoxic effect (IC50 < 50 μg/ml) on three cancer cell lines; MCF-7, PC3 and MDAMB-
231, therefore the purpose of this study was the isolation of the responsible cytotoxic
compounds from the plant. Isolation of the extract led to the identification of four
diterpenoids named as lanugon Q (1), 12,16-dideoxy aegyptinone B (2), 12-deoxysalvipisone
(3) and manool (4). The chemical structures have been determined on the basis
of 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Compound 1 is reported for the first time in the plants of
the Zhumeria genus. The results of cytotoxic and apoptotic evaluation revealed that compound
2 had a strong cytotoxic effect with the IC50 value of 15.90 μg/ml against MCF-7 cell
lines. The sub-G1 peak in flow cytometry histogram of cells treated with the EtOAc extract
and compound 2 showed the induction of apoptosis. Changes in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and
cleavage of PARP were observed. It is to be noted that owing to the strong cytotoxic effect,
the Z. majdae extract could be represented as a therapeutic agent against cancer.
Can Mandated BCG Vaccine Promote herd Immunity against Novel Coronavirus? A Potential Solution at Hand to Tackle Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Arasu Ashok , Balakrishnan Pavithra , Velusamy Thirunavukkarasu , Ramesh Thiagarajan
Published: November 2020

The 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection is an emerging pandemic that poses
a severe threat to global public health. This pandemic started from the Wuhan City of Hubei
Province in China, and is speculated to have originated from bats and spread among humans with
an unknown intermediate transmitter. The virus binds to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2),
which is abundantly expressed on various human cells, including lung epithelial and intestinal
cells, thereby entering into these cells and causing infection. It is transmitted to other humans
through airborne droplets from infected patients. Presently there are no specific treatments or
vaccines that are available to curtail the spread of this disease. There are few indirect reports that
explain the potential importance of the mandated BCG vaccine as a protective factor against
COVID-19. There is a speculation that a live attenuated vaccine (BCG vaccine) can be beneficial
against COVID-19 to develop the initial immune response, and can also spread in the community,
thereby boosting herd immunity to fight against COVID-19. This review summarizes the conclusions
of various reports on the BCG vaccine, and is an attempt to establish BCG-vaccination mediated
herd immunity as an effective instant intermediate approach in curbing COVID-19 spread in
highly populous countries.
Nutrient and Qualitative Phytochemical Analysis-evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity and Development of Products with Mulberry Leaves (Mulberry indica L.)
Authors: Sireesha Guttapalam , Sri Nallapu K.V.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Mulberry leaves are highly nutritious. They are loaded with powerful
plant compounds like polyphenol antioxidants, as well as vitamin C, zinc, calcium, iron, potassium,
phosphorus, and magnesium.

Objective:

The main aim of the study is to determine the nutrient and phytochemical analysis, antimicrobial
activity, and development of products with mulberry (Morus indica L.) dry leaves powder.

Methods:

Mulberry leaves were collected from the field and dried, and their powder was used for
further analysis. Four products were developed using mulberry powder, they are mulberry roti, mulberry
poori, mulberry namkeens, and mulberry sweet namkeens.

Results:

The nutrient composition of mulberry leaves contains protein 19 g, calcium 581 mg, iron
21 mg, vitamin-A 9.21 μg, and vitamin-C 18 mg per 100 gm of dried mulberry powder. The important
phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, phenols, tannins and glycosides,
were present. In the antimicrobial activity, mulberry had the efficiency to fight against the bacterial
activity. From the four food products, mulberry sweet namkeens obtained a good sensory score.

Conclusion:

Many nutritional benefits and medicinal values are associated with Mulberry, therefore
its consumption is good for health.
Drug-free Nanotherapies for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Shende Pravin , Saini Prashant
Published: November 2020

Background:

In the diagnosis, management and treatment of cancer, numerous technological advancements have
been explored in the past few years to find better applications over the conventional treatment approaches. However, their
implementation in clinical practice leads to severe and toxic effects to the healthy tissues. Drugs in the form of actives
impart cytotoxic effect but concurrently produce undesirable changes on normal tissues. Moreover, serum half-life and
intra-tumor accumulation limit an effective cancer treatment for therapeutic agents.

Objective:

The objective of this review is to promote the significance of nanotherapy in cancer by strategizing drug-free
macromolecules in contrast to conventional methodologies.

Methods:

This unique concept covers molecularly-imprinted polymers, nanopolymer complex systems, metal nanoparticles,
carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, grafted polymer-based systems and drug-free macromolecular therapeutics for effective
and selective therapeutic action.

Results:

In advance drug delivery systems, target-specific therapy indicates great potential to improve the efficacy of
therapeutics by reducing adverse events to other parts of the body, but is restricted due to adverse reactions at the therapeutic
site. To resolve such complications, drug-free nanotherapy approaches act as an alternative system against conventional
carriers for treating organ-specific cancers like head, neck, lung, breast, prostate, kidney, etc.

Conclusion:

The drug-free approaches in various diseases will provide entirely new perception in order to avoid or reduce
the side and adverse effects of drugs.
Therapeutic Agents for COVID-19: an Overview
Authors: Manna Sreejan , Mal Mainak , Bhowmik Manas , Mandal Dipika
Published: November 2020

Background::

The pathological agent of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel
coronavirus termed severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 has
its origin in Wuhan, China, and spread to other provinces of China and subsequently to other countries
resulting in a pandemic worldwide. The virus is extremely contagious and causes pneumonia and respiratory
failure. Since its emergence, researchers around the world are trying to develop vaccines and
find suitable drugs for the treatment of COVID-19.

Objective::

To give an overview of the various therapeutic agents for COVID-19 such as vaccines and
drugs that are in preclinical stage or under different stages of clinical trials.

Results::

As per World Health Organization (WHO), there are 137 vaccines under development to date,
out of which few vaccines have successfully completed preclinical studies and reached clinical trials.
According to the present scenario, only one coronavirus vaccine (sputnik-V) has been approved by the
Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. Till date, there are no United States Food and Drug Administration
(USFDA) approved drugs to treat COVID-19 patients. However, depending on patient’s
condition, different drugs such as antiviral agents like Remdesivir, antimalarial drugs like Hydroxychloroquine,
antibiotics like Azithromycin and corticosteroids like Dexamethasone are being applied
and some of them have proved to be effective up to a certain extent.

Conclusion::

Although several vaccines for COVID-19 are under development and various drugs have
been tried for its treatment, an ideal drug candidate or a vaccine is still lacking. Almost all the big
pharmaceutical companies are associated with one or more research initiatives in order to develop
vaccines and drugs. Many of them are going through clinical stages, expecting a positive outcome by
the end of 2020.
Psychometric Properties of Binge Eating Scale Indonesian Version
Authors: Kusbiantari Dyah , Fitriana Efi , Hinduan Zahrotur Rusyda , Srisayekti Wilis
Published: November 2020

This research aims to examine the psychometric properties of the Indonesian version of the Binge Eating Scale (BES) and to describe characteristics of binge eating among emerging adults aged 19 – 25 years old in 3 private universities in Indonesia. The Indonesian version of BES was translated forward and backwards, according to the second edition of the ITC guidelines to confirm conceptual and linguistic equivalence. The result provided factor structure evidence and showed good reliability of the BES Indonesian version. No significant difference between man and woman and Body Mass Index was observed.
Pre-service Teachers' Representations About Children's Learning: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pedditzi Maria L. , Nonnis Marcello
Published: November 2020

Background:

Research on teachers' representations of children's learning is currently ongoing.

Social representations are common-sense theories built and shared in everyday interactions. Their analysis can detect the possible differences between teachers’ naïve beliefs and scientific learning theories.

Objective:

The objective of this pilot study is to analyse the beliefs about children’s learning of a group of teachers. The beliefs will be related to the most acknowledged learning theories.

Methods:

A mixed methods research was employed to analyse 100 pre-service teachers’ representations of the origins of learning and the psychological processes involved.

Results:

It emerged from the results that the teachers interviewed consider children’s learning mainly as culturally acquired, which reveals the prevailing constructivist conception of learning. Many pre-service primary school teachers, however, tend to see learning as mere ‘transfer of information’; many pre-service kindergarten teachers perceive learning as ‘behaviour modification’. The most considered psychological aspects are ‘knowledge’ and ‘acquisition’, while emotions are barely considered.

Conclusion:

Linking implicit theories and disciplinary theories could support pre-service teachers in integrating the theory and the practice of learning so as to understand the way their models influence their educational choices.
Proposal for a 4-type Classification of Acne: An Evidence-Based Review of the Literature
Authors: Prapapan O. , Chatchavarn C. C. , Suvanprakorn P. , Neumann H. A. M. , Knobler R. , Prombandankul A. , Siriapaipun K.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Proper evidence-basedclassification and grading of a disease such as acne are important in guiding medical practitioners to properly diagnose diseases and treat patients.

Objective:

This is a review of the present classification of acne in order to delineate modified approaches of acne treatment.

Methods:

The available literature was reviewed, including searches from 7 databases based on the terms “classification of acne vulgaris and pathophysiology”, according to evidence-based medicine using the Cochrane risk of bias tool.

Results:

From a total of 10,121 studies on acne classification, 51 full-text articles were assessed and 13 studies were included after screening for acne classification.

Conclusion:

The European-evidence-based guideline (EDF) classification fits best. We propose a modified classification in 4 categories to improve the management of each stage of acne.
The Magnitude of Suicidal Behavior among People Living with Diabetes Mellitus Attending an Outpatient Department of Alamata General Hospital, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia 2019: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gebreselassie Abreha Tsegay , Metekiya Workua Mokenen , Gebrehiwot Birhane
Published: November 2020

Background:

Globally, suicide accounts for 75% in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Though the magnitude of suicidal behavior in High-income Countries (HIC) is higher relative to the general population, limited studies had explored suicidal behavior among medical outpatients in LMICs including this locality. Suicidal behaviors among people with the chronic medical illness are one of the commonest psychiatric emergencies that demand a major health concern by researchers and mental health task forces. People with chronic medical illnesses show suicidal ideation and attempt which are fatal problems to end life. Therefore, this study will address the gaps by determining the magnitude of suicidal behavior among Diabetes Mellitus (DM) patients in an outpatient setting of Alamata General Hospital (AGH).

Methods:

Institutional based cross-sectional study was conducted among medical patients attending a chronic care clinic in Alamata general Hospital from May to June 2019. A sample of 146 DM patients who were attending an outpatient chronic care clinic was included in the study. Suicidal behavior was assessed by the World Health Organization (WHO) suicidal behavior assessment through software called Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 25.

Results:

The magnitude of suicidal behavior among Diabetes Mellitus patients at AGH was 30.8%, 15.8% had suicidal ideation, 14.4% had a suicidal attempt and 15.1% of them had the plan to commit suicide.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of suicidal behavior was found to be significantly high in Diabetes Mellitus patients. Hence, it is important to conduct more interventions to assess the suicidal behavior symptoms among Diabetes Mellitus patients.
COVID-19 Cytokine Storm Complications in Asthmatic Patients
Authors: Nasab Entezar Mehrabi , Athari Seyyed Shamsadin
Published: November 2020

The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 has inflicted millions of people in the world and caused severe complications in immunocompromised individuals. Some evidences suggest that severe COVID-19 complications are associated with the cytokine storm syndrome, contributing to the high mortality rate of the disease. Asthma is a complicated disease of the respiratory system. COVID-19 symptoms can be worse in asthmatic patients than others. Corticosteroids with anti-inflammatory functions which are used in asthmatic patients may have adverse outcomes in coronavirus infection and are not recommended for the treatment of COVID-19. Furthermore, asthmatic patients (using inhalation corticosteroids) have a suppressed immune system in the lung, which increases their susceptibility to COVID-19 infection.