bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pandemia de Covid-19 e os Impactos no Setor Supermercadista: Uma Análise do Panorama de um Município de Minas Gerais
Authors: Carvalho Gabriella Baccarini de , Tavares Wellington
Published: November 2021

O estado de emergência higiênico-sanitário que a Covid-19 provocou no mundo gerou alterações na mobilidade, na renda e no estilo de vida da sociedade, impactando, dessa forma, fatores importantes que influenciam o comportamento do consumidor. O presente estudo tem como objetivo analisar como as transformações consequentes do novo coronavírus afetaram o comportamento de consumo e, consequentemente, as organizações, em relação às estratégias operacionais do setor supermercadista durante o período de distanciamento social ampliado. A abordagem empregada na pesquisa é de base quali-quantitativa. Os dados analisados foram coletados por meio da aplicação de questionários com seis supermercados de um município no interior de Minas Gerais – dados primários – e por meio da pesquisa em sites especializados em análise de consumo – dados secundários. Os resultados demonstram que houve alterações de demanda em praticamente todas as categorias de produtos vendidos pelo setor supermercadista e que mudanças como frequência de compras, canais de vendas e pagamento com auxílio emergencial fizeram com que os estabelecimentos buscassem estratégias para se adequar às novas necessidades, além de planejar suas demandas e capacidades de abastecimento. Dentre as adaptações implementadas, as medidas de higiene e promoção do distanciamento entre pessoas nas lojas físicas se destacam no que tange aos canais de venda offline. Para os canais online, o setor carece de melhorarias em suas estratégias, principalmente nos estabelecimentos do interior, ainda que tenha sido possível perceber que o setor se adaptou à utilização de aplicativos para enfrentar muitos dos desafios atuais.
Spatiotemporal pattern variations of daily precipitation concentration and their relationship with possible causes in the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Mei Chao , Liu Jiahong , Huang Ze , Wang Hao , Wang Kaibo , Shao Weiwei , Li Meng
Published: November 2021

Understanding the spatiotemporal pattern of precipitation concentration is important in the water cycle under changing environments. In this study, the daily precipitation concentration index in the Yangtze River Delta in China is calculated based on the Lorenz curves obtained from the observed data of 36 meteorological stations from 1960 to 2017, and spatiotemporal pattern variations and their possible causes are investigated. The driving forces of elevation, SUNSPOT, El Niño-Antarctic Oscillation, Pacific Decade Oscillation, and Arctic Oscillation are detected with correlation and wavelet analysis. Results show that, the daily precipitation concentration index ranges from 0.55 to 0.62 during the study period, 22 of 36 stations (accounting for 61%) show increasing trends, while three stations increase significantly at the 95% significant level. Relationship analysis indicates that the daily precipitation concentration shows a slightly negative correlation with elevation, while the relationships with SUNSPOT, El Niño-Antarctic Oscillation, Pacific Decade Oscillation, and Arctic Oscillation are complicated and diverse, there are different correlations and significance levels in different years. Further analysis shows that SUNSPOT is significantly correlated with El Niño-Antarctic Oscillation, Pacific Decade Oscillation, and Arctic Oscillation, which suggests that SUNSPOT may be an important factor that drives the changes of the three large-scale atmosphere circulation factors and causes precipitation concentration changing indirectly. These results provide further understanding of precipitation variations, which is meaningful for regional flood risk management under climate change.
Relações Fitogeomorfológicas da Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Curu, Ceará- Brasil: Uma abordagem preliminar
Authors: Mendes Luciana Sousa
Published: November 2021

O semiárido nordestino apresenta considerável grau de heterogeneidade fisiográfica, condicionado por uma dinâmica natural complexa. Nessa perspectiva se destaca a Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Curu, com grande diversidade paisagística no contexto cearense, tendo em vista as inúmeras relações existentes entre os componentes ambientais. Sua área de drenagem de 8.534 km² corresponde a cerca de 6% do território estadual. Face ao exposto, o presente trabalho visa, através de um método de análise fitogeomorfológica, relacionar o relevo com a distribuição vegetal da área, subsidiando o monitoramento, gestão e conservação do ambiente. O trabalho tem como metodologia levantamento de campo, revisão bibliográfica, interpretação de imagens de sensoriamento remoto, compilação das informações obtidas e elaboração da pesquisa. Após as discussões e diagnósticos da área, foi apresentado a cada unidade geomorfológica o desenvolvimento de uma cobertura vegetal adaptada a morfodinâmica da área em que se insere. Nos maciços residuais ocorre a presença de mata pluvionebular e mata seca, as caatingas desenvolvem-se na depressão sertaneja, a mata ciliar percorre as planícies fluviais, nos tabuleiros pré-litorâneos ocorre a mata de tabuleiro, e por fim, na planície costeira, há um complexo vegetacional litorâneo, com destaque para o manguezal.
Uso da terra pela cafeicultura e degradação ambiental no entorno da Barragem Água Fria em Barra do Choça – Bahia
Authors: Rocha Altemar Amaral
Published: November 2021

O estudo de uso da terra no espaço produtivo analisado, onde a cafeicultura predomina em larga escala, teve como fio condutor a questão da degradação ambiental e da relação sociedade e natureza no contexto socioambiental. Os resultados obtidos no desenvolver da pesquisa apontam que houve um acelerado desmatamento nas áreas de encostas e no topo do planalto que é tipo de terreno predominante na bacia do rio Água Fria. A análise da degradação ambiental no entorno do sistema de Barragens Água Fria I e II nos evidenciou uma serie de problemas ambientais decorrentes do uso e da ocupação das terras do seu entorno, dentre os problemas mais acentuados foi a diminuição da vazão dos rios e a diminuição das nascentes perenes existentes nas áreas ocupadas pela cafeicultura e posteriormente pelas pastagens e criação de gado, além dos processos erosivos em estagio acelerado nas diversas áreas de maior declividade da bacia.
Caracterização morfológica e granulométrica de depósitos aluviais semiáridos
Authors: Martins Leonardo Dantas
Published: November 2021

A região semiárida brasileira é vista a partir do problema de convivência com a seca e na obtenção e otimização de recursos hídricos, o aproveitamento da água pelas comunidades de menor condição financeira é importante para desenvolvimento desta população, com enfoque para a população rural; com o trabalho de identificação, mapeamento e caracterização desses depósitos, na importância de transformar o trabalho acadêmico em técnicas de aplicação para a realidade, o estudo quis obter o máximo de informações sobre a região e como aproveitar tais recursos hídricos, o principal método utilizado foi a caracterização sedimentológica que vista na revisão bibliográfica é bastante importante para os resultados esperados, a partir disto, o trabalho conseguiu ter resultados de granulometria dos depósitos, destacando a localização e o processo deposicional local, por fim, no resultado chegamos a quatro tipos de depósitos quando os aquíferos aluviais com maior capacidade hídrica são aqueles que possuem alta porosidade em maiores frações de areia e com alta durabilidade quando a carga de silte e argila está misturada no depósito.
Sistematização de informações cartográficas de suporte ao plano de gestão e de manejo da zona costeira de Sergipe
Authors: Araújo Hélio Mário de
Published: November 2021

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo recuperar a memória do GERCO/SE a partir dos documentos cartográficos produzidos, considerando a apresentação, qualidade e elementos das cartas sínteses parciais e final para subsidiar técnica e administrativamente ao Projeto “Plano de Gestão e de Manejo da Zona Costeira de Sergipe” voltado, especificamente, para o Litoral Sul. A pesquisa abrangeu duas importantes etapas, a saber: levantamento e sistematização de informações cartográficas, compreendendo contatos diretos, através de entrevistas com a equipe da SEPLANTEC, e avaliação do conjunto de procedimentos desenvolvidos associados aos produtos cartográficos elaborados no decênio 1988/1998, abrangendo as metodologias empregadas nas duas fases de implementação do plano de gerenciamento. Do ponto de vista gerencial, os resultados obtidos deverão subsidiar a gestão costeira no âmbito da ADEMA e, do ponto de vista técnico, fornecerá os elementos de suporte ao desenvolvimento do projeto referenciado, delineando o contorno do que está previsto nas diferentes etapas do Diagnóstico Socioambiental e elaboração do Zoneamento Ecológico Econômico.
Política Nacional de Meio Ambiente e Gerenciamento Costeiro no Brasil
Authors: Rocha Glairton Cardoso
Published: November 2021

A Lei nº 6.938 de 1981 (BRASIL, 1981), que instituiu a Política Nacional de Meio Ambiente (PNMA) e organiza o Sistema de Gestão Ambiental Brasileiro em termos legais, inaugura uma nova etapa na legislação ambiental brasileira, pautada na descentralização e participação. O presente trabalho objetiva analisar os desdobramentos da PNMA no desenvolvimento de políticas e instrumentos específicos de gerenciamento costeiro (mais especificamente o PNGC e o Orla).
Trabalho de campo como metodologia de ensino: relato de experiência em Geografia
Authors: Monte Lucas Almeida
Published: November 2021

O espaço geográfico possui elementos que apresentam suas compreensões baseadas em análises diversificadas e aprofundadas, contribuindo para o processo de construção de teorias, das quais são originados conceitos e fundamentos básicos. Nesse sentido, a Geomorfologia surge como a ciência que estuda as formas de relevo, com suas respectivas teorias e conceitos. Para verificação das formas de relevo, o Trabalho de Campo se configura como principal recurso metodológico a ser utilizado nos diferentes níveis de ensino, seja ele básico ou superior, no momento em que a prática de campo proporciona o contato direto entre o pesquisador e o objeto de estudo. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho tem como objetivo principal o relato de experiência de um Trabalho de Campo realizado em municípios do Piauí e Ceará, com o intuito de verificar in loco a aplicação de conceitos da ciência geomorfológica. Para tanto, revisões bibliográfica foram realizadas a fim de se obter um maior suporte teórico, tal como observações e análises realizadas durante a prática de campo. A partir disso, constata-se a necessidade dos Trabalhos de Campo, com suas respectivas descrições e caracterizações da paisagem, ou seja, proporcionando uma maior relação entre sociedade e natureza.
Tratamento gráfico-estatístico de dados de temperatura dos bairros da cidade de Sobral (CE) direcionado à análise das variações do campo térmico
Authors: Mesquita Francisca Nathalia Silva
Published: November 2021

Este trabalho tem como objetivo produzir gráficos e mapas detalhando as variações do campo térmico do espaço urbano de Sobral (CE), a partir do banco de dados levantados sobre a temperatura dos bairros da referida cidade, auxiliando nas análises da influência da urbanização nos parâmetros de temperatura em ambiente semiárido. Os pressupostos metodológicos contidos em ZAVATTINI, 2013, e no Sistema do Clima Urbano (SCU) proposto por MONTEIRO (2003) norteiam os procedimentos da pesquisa. Esperamos que os resultados da pesquisa possam contribuir com a gestão pública do espaço urbano, principalmente no que se refere à gestão ambiental e, consequentemente, à melhoria da qualidade de vida da população sobralense, que sofre com o desconforto térmico crescente.
A influência do Rio Mundaú-CE para uma leitura microclimática na Comunidade de Conceição dos Caetanos: uma abordagem climática e geoambiental.
Authors: Alves Eduardo Rodrigues
Published: November 2021

Este trabalho tem por objetivo analisar a influência do Rio Mundaú para uma leitura microclimática, sobre conforto térmico, e ambiental para a Comunidade de Conceição dos Caetanos, em Tururu-CE. Para isso, foi feito uma leitura microclimática voltada para o conforto térmico e uma caracterização geoambiental de um trecho do Rio Mundaú, especificamente nas proximidades da Comunidade. Também é apresentado aqui uma análise do modo como a população se utiliza do Rio Mundaú, incluindo questões como a importância ambiental e microclimática deste curso hídrico. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que esta importância está baseada no uso do Rio como ambiente de lazer e também para o abastecimento hídrico. Constatou-se ainda que este ambiente é uma importante zona de conforto térmico, mas que apresenta alguns problemas ambientais. Estes problemas, entretanto, podem ser mitigados por meio da sensibilização dos moradores.
Professores, Mestres e Educadores: a Docência aos Olhos do Jornal O Repórter (Uberlândia-MG: 1950-1970)
Authors: Souza Sauloeber Tarsio de , Silva José Lito Salustriano da
Published: November 2021

Neste texto, abordamos a ideia de docência veiculada no jornal “O Repórter”, tentando identificar o estereótipo de professor(a) que era apresentado aos seus leitores. No processo de coleta das notícias, levantamos 846 matérias relativas a educação na coleção deste jornal constante do acervo do Arquivo Público Municipal de Uberlândia-MG, no período entre 1950 e 1963. A temática debatida em torno da profissão docente foi bastante expressiva com cerca de 10% do total das reportagens (87 notícias). As reflexões alcançadas indicam que no processo de acelerado crescimento da rede escolar urbana do município mineiro, as representações dos professores eram apresentadas entre dois polos distintos muitas vezes como figuras de prestígio dignas de exaltação, mas também em alguns momentos acusados pela precariedade da educação em função da má formação.
Neoplasias malignas de laringe em 2019 no estado do Rio de Janeiro: análise epidemiológica
Authors: Melo Rolim Ana Zeile , Menezes Bastos Ana Silvia
Published: November 2021

As neoplasias malignas de laringe são um dos principais tipos de carcinomas de cabeça e pescoço sendo o diagnóstico feito pela otorrinolaringologia através da laringoscopia com biopsia. O principal tipo é o carcinoma de células escamosas e precisa ser diagnosticado previamente, tendo em vista a sua importância anatômica na deglutição, respiração e fonação, além de estética. Esse estudo avalia pelo aspecto da epidemiologia como internações, valor total, taxa de mortalidade, sexo, raça e hábitos modificáveis. Sendo assim, foram obtidas respostas de que se trata de uma enfermidade de diagnóstico tardio, que afeta a vida social do paciente no ano de 2019, onde foram referidos 610 casos sendo prevalente na população mais velha, branca, tabagista e etilista. Em custos se trata de um tratamento cirúrgico com ou sem radioterapia podendo associar-se a quimioterapia, ou seja, oneroso e demorado.
A obesidade como doença multicausal
Authors: Oliveira Aline de Jesus , Conceição de Siqueira Emílio
Published: November 2021

A obesidade, doença multifatorial e multicausal, considerada fator de risco para as principais doenças crônicas não transmissíveis como Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica e Diabetes Mellitus está cada vez mais em ascensão, principalmente na situação de pandemia ocasionada pelo COVID 19, onde as academias e áreas de lazer foram fechadas. Visando abordar sobre a amplitude desse tema e alertar sobre os acometimentos no campo da saúde física e mental, foi feito uma revisão de literatura utilizando 40 artigos, disponíveis nas bases de dados Pub Med, Scielo e Google Acadêmico, nos idiomas inglês e português. Como resultado, foi possível avaliar uma parte da dimensão do problema da obesidade para o Sistema Único de Saúde e os cofres públicos, para saúde mental da população e perceber possíveis soluções que ajudem a diminuir a incidência do excesso de peso no país, melhorar o vínculo médico-paciente, facilitar adesão do cuidado e adequar a educação nutricional brasileira para essa realidade a começar pelas crianças.
Trombose venosa profunda em pacientes com COVID-19:
Authors: Piveti Farias Camila , Moreira Alvarenga Vitor , Souza Maria Cristina Almeida de
Published: November 2021

A doença respiratória aguda causada pelo SARS-CoV-2, identificada como COVID-19, é uma doença infecciosa que apresenta uma rápida e descontrolada propagação, sendo a causa da pandemia mundial atualmente em andamento. Esse vírus gera uma resposta desregulada progressiva, com a síntese de IL-6 e outros mediadores inflamatórios que contribui para ativar o sistema complemento e a cascata de coagulação, causando um estado de hipercoagulabilidade, que potencializa a ocorrência de trombose venosa profunda (TVP). O objetivo do presente estudo foi revisar a literatura sobre a TVP em pacientes diagnosticados com COVID-19. O presente estudo é do tipo qualitativo, retrospectivo, realizado através de uma revisão integrativa de literatura nas bases de dados eletrônicas PubMed, Science Direct e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, artigos publicados nos anos de 2020 e de 2021. Foram selecionados 25 artigos que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Foi observada uma expressiva incidência de TVP em pacientes com COVID-19, principalmente nos admitidos em unidade de terapia intensiva, do sexo masculino com comorbidades. Esse estudo demonstrou a necessidade de despertar a atenção da equipe médica sobre a TVP como sintoma clínico da COVID-19, mesmo nos pacientes que não apresentam sintomas típicos da virose.

Palavras-chave: Trombose; Profunda; COVID-19.
Role of Lipopolysaccharides in Potential Applications of Nanocarrier Systems
Authors: Shende Pravin , Gupta Shubham
Published: November 2021

Background:

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are considered the main molecular component in the outer
membrane of gram-negative bacteria. The LPS molecule in the bacterial cell wall acts as a primary physical barrier
and protects gram-negative bacteria from the surrounding environment. LPS (endotoxins) show immunomodulatory
therapeutic properties as well as toxicity to the host cell, along with several potential applications.

Objective:

This review article aims to describe the recent developments of lipopolysaccharides in nanocarrier
systems for various applications such as vaccination, cancer chemotherapy, and immune stimulants action. Different
nanocarriers like cubosomes, niosomes, dendrimers, and metal nanoparticles used in the delivery of actives
are employed to decorate lipopolysaccharide molecules superficially.

Methods:

A narrative review of all the relevant papers known to the author was conducted.

Conclusion:

Commercially available lipid nanoparticles contribute to many advances as promising nanocarriers
in cancer therapy and are used as a vaccine adjuvant by improving the immune response due to their properties
such as size, shape, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. In contrast, lipopolysaccharide-decorated nanoparticles
change the host’s tolerability and increase the effectiveness of molecules in cancer immunotherapy.
These nanoconjugate systems enhance overall immunogenic response and effectiveness in vaccine immunotherapy
and targeted therapy, not only limited to human applications but also for poultry and aquaculture. Newer opportunities
include the use of lipopolysaccharides for the treatment and management of diseases with unique
characteristics like the presence of lipoprotein that acts as an alternative for bacterial infections over conventional
dosage forms.
An Update on Recent Advances for the Treatment of Cerebral Malaria
Authors: Purohit Deepika , Kumar Sahil , Dutt Rohit , Bhardwaj Tilak Raj
Published: November 2021

:

Among all the parasitic diseases in humans, malaria is the most significant and malicious
one. The widespread species are Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, but the infection
caused by the former is the deadliest. According to the November 2018 report of the World Health
Organization (WHO), a total of 219 million cases of malaria were reported globally in 2017, which
led to an estimated 435,000 deaths. Mortality due to malaria is estimated at 1.5 - 2.7 million deaths each
year. Among all the complications associated with Plasmodium falciparum infection, cerebral malaria (CM)
is the most fretful, accounting for almost 13% of all malaria-related deaths. CM is a medical emergency that
requires immediate clinical testing and treatment. A compromised microcirculation, with sequestration of
parasitized erythrocytes, is central in the disease pathology. No effective therapeutic agents are
available yet for the treatment of CM, and therefore, potential interventions are needed to be
developed urgently. The currently available anti-malarial drugs lack lipophilicity and are thus
not able to reach the brain tissues. Therefore, safe, cost-effective agents with improved lipophilicity
possessing the potential to target brain tissues are needed to be searched in order to fight CM worldwide.
The aim of present review is to systematically revise the published research work available concerning
the development and evaluation of some potential drug targets in the management of CM.
The Lymphangiogenic Factor CCBE1 Promotes Angiogenesis and
Tumor Growth in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ding Wenjun , Tang Wenfang , Zhi Jiajun
Published: November 2021

Background:

Collagen and calcium-binding EGF domain-1 (CCBE1) is
essential for the development of the lymphatic vasculature and colorectal cancer (CRC)
lymphangiogenesis as it enhances the proteolytic process of vascular endothelial
growth factor C (VEGFC) activating VEGFR3. The fully processed mature VEGFC
could also activate VEGFR2, the important endothelial-specific receptor tyrosine kinase,
involved in blood vascular development and tumor angiogenesis. However, the role of
CCBE1 in cancer angiogenesis remains undefined.

Methods:

In this paper, we find that the protein expression of CCBE1 is higher in the
primary CRC tissue with distant metastasis and positively correlated with blood vessel
density.

Results:

The mRNA expression of CCBE1 is closely positively correlated with the
vascular endothelial marker CD31 and VEGFR2 in CRC from TCGA datasets. The
supernatant of the colorectal cancer cell line HCT116 with CCBE1 overexpression
significantly promotes the tube formation ability of the human umbilical vein endothelial
cells (HUVECs) in vitro and enhances angiogenesis and tumor growth in vivo.
Knockdown of CCBE1 decreases the angiogenic ability of CRC.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate the angiogenic role of CCBE1 in CRC.
Altered Biological Rhythm and Alzheimer's Disease: A Bidirectional Relationship
Authors: Wang Manli , Yu Hang , Li Song , Xiang Yang , Le Weidong
Published: November 2021

Biological rhythms have become the research focus in recent years. Biological rhythm
disruption is a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients, which is usually considered
as the late consequence of AD. Recent studies have shown that biological rhythm disruption
even occurs before the onset of clinical symptoms of AD. The causal relationship between AD and
biological rhythm disruption is not clear. Delineating their relationship can help understand the disease
mechanisms and make the early diagnosis of AD possible. This review integrates the research
on the abnormal changes of the biological rhythm-related parameters in the clinical manifestations
of AD patients and the roles of the biological rhythm disorders in AD. We will discuss the links between
biological rhythms and AD, with the focus on the bidirectionality between biological
rhythms and AD processes. Collectively, these updated research findings may provide the basis for
further exploring the significance of rhythm in the diagnosis and treatment of AD.
Concrete Microstructure Study on the Effect of Sisal Fiber Addition on Sugarcane Bagasse Ash Concrete
Authors: Tunje Constance , Onchiri Richard , Thuo Joseph
Published: November 2021

Background:

Concrete made using sugarcane bagasse ash as a cement replacement is associated with a reduction in split tensile strength and therefore a need to establish the possible causes of tensile strength reduction and explore ways of mitigating that reduction.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to establish the possible causes of tensile strength reduction in sugarcane bagasse ash concrete and determine the effect of sisal fiber addition on its mechanical properties.

Methods:

Scanning Electron Microscopy was first done to analyse concrete microstructure in establishing the possible causes of tensile strength reduction in sugarcane bagasse ash concrete. Thereafter, sisal fiber addition was done by varying aspect ratios and percentages. The effect of the addition was determined on the mechanical properties of bagasse ash concrete accompanied by microstructure studies on extracted fibers and split surfaces of concrete.

Results:

Concrete microstructure studies revealed that wider cracks due to drying shrinkage and poor bonding properties of sugarcane bagasse ash are the possible causes of tensile strength reduction in bagasse ash concrete. Sisal fiber addition improved the mechanical properties of bagasse ash concrete. Microstructure studies portrayed effective bridging of cracks and good adhesive properties of the fibers.

Conclusion:

Sisal fibers can be used to improve on the mechanical properties of sugarcane bagasse ash concrete with 100 aspect ratio and 1.5% addition being the optimal combination.
A Critique on “Measurement of the Hygric Resistance of Concrete Blocks with Perfect Contact Interface: Influence of the Contact Area”
Authors: Janssen Hans
Published: November 2021

Background:

In March 2021, this journal published the article “Measurement of the hygric resistance of concrete blocks with perfect contact interface: influence of the contact area”. That article reports on a study on the impact of ‘perfect contact’ between concrete blocks on moisture absorption, with a focus on the impact of the sample cross-section.

Objective:

This critique aims at formulating several essential concerns on the hygric aspects of that article, thus expressing the discusser’s reservations on the reliability of the presented outcomes in particular and the published article in general.

Methods:

The data, as provided in the graphs of the critiqued article, are digitally extracted and further analysed by the discusser.

Results:

That analysis results in serious concerns with regard to 1) the magnitude of the quantified post-interface flows, 2) the distinguishability of the moisture absorption in the monolithic and perfect contact samples, 3) the robustness of the knee-point identification algorithm, 4) the dependability of the capillary absorption measurements, and 5) the consistency of the capillary absorption processing. These are finally translated into 8 concrete questions to be addressed by the authors of the critiqued article in order to placate these doubts and establish the reliability of their work.

Conclusion:

This critique formulates appreciable apprehension with respect to an earlier publication in the journal and invites its authors to respond to that via answering the 8 concrete questions. If not satisfactory, then the critiqued article’s findings cannot be considered reliable, and the journal should reconsider its prior publication.
Dual Pathogenesis of Primary and Recurrent Pterygium: Immunohistochemical Proof
Authors: Ghorab Doaa , Helaly Ahmed , Badawi Amani E.
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Pterygium is a common ophthalmic problem in the Middle East where exposures to dust and sun rays are risk factors. The condition is more prevalent in middle-aged males and can be considered as an aging process. The aim of this study is to test both the degenerative and the proliferative components of Pterygium by both reduced glutathione and topoisomerase one activity.

Methods:

The study applied immunohistochemistry staining for both reduced glutathione and topoisomerase 1.

Results:

The samples expressed positive glutathione staining in most primary Pterygium conditions and all secondary Pterygium. On the other hand, the topoisomerase 1 immunohistochemistry expressed focal activity in secondary conditions suggesting a progenitor cell role in the pathogenesis of Pterygium in conjunction with oxidative stress.

Conclusion:

Pterygium represents dual pathology with a proliferative component and a degenerative one that needs further studies. It is possible to use combination immunohistochemistry markers to predict the prognosis of Pterygium behavior.
Knowledge and Awareness of the Coronavirus Disease and Perceptions Towards Ophthalmic Practice Among Ophthalmologists
Authors: Gammoh Yazan
Published: November 2021

Objective:

To investigate the level of awareness of ophthalmologists towards COVID-19 and their perceptions towards infection control in ophthalmic practice.

Methods:

A web-based survey was conducted using Google Forms during the month of December 2020. All ophthalmologists practicing in Sudan were invited to participate in the study. Participants who did not agree to the terms of the electronic consent form presented at the beginning of the questionnaire as well as those who did not complete the survey, were excluded from the analysis. Knowledge of causes, symptoms, and methods of transmission of COVID-19; ophthalmologists’ attitudes and perceptions towards COVID-19 and clinical practice, including contact lens practice, were assessed using a set of 26 multiple-choice close-ended questions.

Results:

Of the 307 participants, 77.4% were in the age range 30-40 years and 73% were contact lens practitioners. While 96.1% acknowledged the scientific name of COVID-19, 46.9% were aware of its cause. Ophthalmologists aged 40-50 years were more likely to agree that air-puffing tonometer risks infection spread (OR 1.62, 95% CI: 0.27-9.70, p<0.01). Ophthalmologists aged 30-40 years were more likely to agree that a slit lamp shield would reduce infection risk (OR 1.52, 95% CI: 0.33-6.96, p<0.01). Contact lens practitioners were more likely to perceive that frequent replacement contact lens use can increase the infection spread (OR 2.64, 95% CI: 1.17-5.94, p<0.01).

Conclusion:

Ophthalmologists in Sudan demonstrated a mixed level of knowledge of the causes, symptoms, and modes of transmission of COVID-19. While the majority were able to identify the protective measures generally required by medical practitioners and patients, there was a limited level of knowledge regarding protective measures specific to ophthalmic practices, especially when dealing with contact lenses. Official national guidelines about safe ophthalmic service provision during the COVID-19 pandemic are recommended.
Use of Two Complementary Bioinformatic Approaches to Identify Differentially Methylated Regions in Neonatal Sepsis
Authors: Navarrete Paula , Garzón María José , Lorente-Pozo Sheila , Mena-Mollá Salvador , Vento Máximo , Pallardó Federico V. , Beltrán-García Jesús , Osca-Verdegal Rebeca , García-López Eva , García-Giménez José Luis
Published: November 2021

Background:

Neonatal sepsis is a heterogeneous condition affecting preterm infants whose underlying mechanisms remain unknown. The analysis of changes in the DNA methylation pattern can contribute to improving the understanding of molecular pathways underlying disease pathophysiology. Methylation EPIC 850K BeadChip technology is an excellent tool for genome-wide methylation analyses and the detection of differentially methylated regions (DMRs).

Objective:

The aim is to identify DNA methylation traits in complex diseases, such as neonatal sepsis, using data from Methylation EPIC 850K BeadChip arrays.

Methods:

Two different bioinformatic methods, DMRcate (a supervised approach) and mCSEA (an unsupervised approach), were used to identify DMRs using EPIC data from leukocytes of neonatal septic patients. Here, we describe with detail the implementation of both methods as well as their applicability, briefly discussing the results obtained for neonatal sepsis.

Results:

Differences in methylation levels were observed in neonatal sepsis patients. Moreover, differences were identified between the two subsets of the disease: Early-Onset neonatal Sepsis (EOS) and Late-Onset Neonatal Sepsis (LOS).

Conclusion:

This approach by using DMRcate and mCSA helped us to gain insight into the intricate mechanisms that may drive EOS and LOS development and progression in newborns.
Vitamin D Receptor Gene Polymorphisms and the Risk of Chronic Hepatitis C Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Egyptian Population
Authors: Mohamed Amal A. , Abd-Elsalam Sherief , Mostafa Hanan M. , Abdalla Asmaa , Farouk Ahmed , Aref Ahmed M. , A.A. Elshmiy Reham , ElSayed Eman , Shafik Nevine F. , O. Mahmoud Maha , Al-Daly Moustafa , Zaghloul Mariam S.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Small percentage of hepatitis C (HCV) patients develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) during their lifetime, suggesting that genetic factors might modulate HCC development. Numerous variations on the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) have been recognized in human cancers. The majority of them cause VDR to be unable to bind to 1, 25-OH-D. The aim of the present work was to investigate the relation of VDR FokI (rs2228570), BsmI (rs3782905) and ApaI (rs7975232) gene polymorphisms and the risk of HCC development in chronic HCV Egyptian patients.

Methods:

A total of 311 Egyptian patients were enrolled for this study. They were divided into 3 groups: 103 patients with liver Cirrhosis, 107 patients with HCC and 101 normal healthy subjects as the control group. Human genomic DNA Extraction was carried out using QIAamp® DNA Blood Mini Kit (QIAGEN) Genotyping of VDR ApaI (rs7975232) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was carried out using real-time PCR TaqMan allelic discrimination assay with allele-specific designed fluorescent MGB probes.

Results:

Patients with HCC had a higher frequency of ApaI CC genotype (P=0.035) CI (0.031-0.038). Patients with HCC carried a higher ratio of ApaI CC genotype compared to those with liver cirrhosis (x2=5.4 and P = 0.03) or controls (x2=6.8 and P = 0.01). Univariate analysis revealed that age, lower platelet count (<150×103/μL), higher AFP (>100 ng/ml), and ApaI CC genotype were the factors significantly associated with the development of HCC. Stepwise logistic regression analysis showed that all were independent predictors.

Conclusion:

ApaI CC VDR gene mutation is an independent risk factor for HCC development in Egyptian Cirrhotic HCV patients.
Lipid Profiles as Markers for the Severity of Liver Diseases in Cirrhotic Patients
Authors: Badawi Rehab , Abu Rahma Mohamed Zakaria , Ramadan Haidi K. , Soliman Shaimaa , Mohareb Dina A. , Hawash Nehad , Elkafoury Rania , Abd-Elsalam Sherief
Published: November 2021

Background

Liver cirrhosis is a diffuse process in which the anatomical structure and function of the liver are disturbed. Lipid metabolism occurs mainly in the hepatocytes. In liver cirrhosis, it is expected to detect abnormal lipid profile and abnormal neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio due to necro-inflammation and hepatocyte dysfunction. This study aimed to estimate the lipid profile in patients with liver cirrhosis and to assess its relation to the severity of the liver disease based on Child-Pugh Turcotte score and Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR).

Methods:

This study included 500 cirrhotic patients. All patients are subjected to history taking, clinical examination, liver and renal function tests, lipid profile, and also abdomino-pelvic ultrasound. Child -Pugh score, fibrosis-4 score (FIB4), and neutrophil and platelet lymphocyte ratio were calculated.

Results:

A total of 500 patients were enrolled in this study; 12 patients were excluded (two patients were on the immunosuppressive drug, three patients had body mass index (BMI) >30, and seven patients took lipid-lowering drugs). Cholesterol level was significantly higher in patients with Child- Score A than B and C. Cholesterol, Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol were significantly higher in Child B than C. A significant negative correlation was found between cholesterol level and each of FIB4 and NLR ratios.

Conclusion:

There was a significant negative correlation between the severity of liver cirrhosis and lipid profiles (except triglyceride), FIB4 and NLR ratio.
Toxins and Venoms from Marine Cnidarians and Gastropods: Diversity
and Potential Drugs Targeting the Ion Channels
Authors: Tlili Sofiene , Brahim Raoua Ben , Sabatier Jean-Marc , Regaya Imed
Published: November 2021

:

A diversity of marine invertebrates, such as cnidarians are rich sources of large bio-active
molecules. This chemo-diversity of bio-active compounds has a promising potential in several
biotechnological and therapeutic applications. On the basis of a comparative bibliographic approach,
we intend in this review to present and discuss an overview of: i) the diversity of marine invertebrates
as a candidate for bio-active molecules production; ii) the diversity of bio-active compounds
and venom derived from these organisms; iii) the relationship between, the diversity of these
marine organisms and the structure of the toxins they secrete. In this bibliographic study, a focus
is going to be made on protein neurotoxins targeting ion channels. We also discuss the potential
link between the bioecological characteristics of cnidarians and the diversity of toxins.
Gender stereotypes in semantics of Spanish proverbs
Authors: Aleksandrovna Tkachyova Anastasiya , Stanislavovna Sharapova Lola , Abdusamiyevna Vakhidova Anastasiya
Published: November 2021

This article is dedicated to the investigation of gender stereotypes expressed in the Spanish language picture of the world on the material of Spanish proverbs about women and men. In the course of the investigation, we classified gender stereotypes to 6 types: age-related, descriptive, psychological, social, functional and sexual and gave examples for each type.
Infancias monstruosas: Debimos ser felices, de Rafaela Lahore, y Mugre rosa, de Fernanda Trías
Authors: Amaro Lorena
Published: November 2021

The following article analyzes the novels Debimos ser Felices, by Rafaela Lahore and Mugre rosa, by Fernanda Trías, both published in 2020. While Lahore works her way through remembrance in an intimate, fragmentary, autobiographical way, Trías’ narrative is complex, apocalyptic, and dystopic. It ranges from a progressive uncertainty about the present to memory’s capacity to hang on to family affections. However, they converge in their narratives’ subtle, dreamlike atmospheres that focus on the voice of children fluctuating between abnormality and monstrosity. Their reflections emphasize the reconstruction of their respective genealogies through reminiscence.
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El siguiente artículo analiza las novelas Debimos ser felices, de Rafaela Lahore, y Mugre rosa, de Fernanda Trías, ambas publicadas en 2020. Si bien comparten ciertas atmósferas sutiles, casi oníricas, Lahore trabaja el recuerdo de manera íntima, fragmentaria y autobiográfica, mientras que la narración de Trías se proyecta como una compleja novela apocalíptica, distópica, que oscila entre la progresiva incertidumbre del presente y la capacidad del recuerdo para aferrarse a los afectos familiares. Ambas ponen en el centro de sus reflexiones a niños y niñas que transitan entre la anomalía y la monstruosidad, con un fuerte acento en la reconstrucción memoriosa de sus respectivas genealogías.
Aristolochia quiricoana (Aristolochiaceae), una nueva especie del sur de Costa Rica
Authors: Jiménez José Esteban , Cedeño-Fonseca Marco , Blanco Mario A.
Published: November 2021

Antecedentes y Objetivos: Aristolochia es el género más grande de Aristolochiaceae y está ampliamente distribuido en el mundo. Una sinopsis reciente de Aristolochia en Costa Rica reconoció 19 especies; sin embargo, una reciente exploración botánica en la parte suroeste de Costa Rica ha revelado otra nueva especie del género.Métodos: La nueva especie resultó del trabajo de campo en Buenos Aires, Provincia de Puntarenas. Se examinaron ejemplares de varios herbarios, así como el material tipo de las especies más similares morfológicamente. Se proporcionan comentarios sobre su distribución, hábitat, fenología, estado de conservación y distinción morfológica de especies relacionadas.Resultados clave: Aristolochia quiricoana, miembro de Aristolochia serie Thyrsicae, se describe e ilustra de la región del Pacífico sur de Costa Rica, donde aparentemente es endémica. Es semejante a A. ornithorhyncha, de la cual se distingue por sus pedicelos más cortos, los limbos del perigonio más anchos y oblongos, con un apéndice más corto, y un patrón diferente de colores de la flor.Conclusiones: El nuevo taxón descrito aquí representa la 22ª especie documentada de Aristolochia serie Thyrsicae, así como la 20ª especie del género para Costa Rica.
Relanguaging Language from a South African Township School
Authors: Krause Lara-Stephanie
Published: November 2021

Using data from a long-term ethnographic study of English language classrooms in a South African township, this book conceptualises language teaching not as a progression from one fixed language to another, but as a circular sorting process between linguistic heterogeneity (languaging) and homogeneity (a standard language).
Educação popular e pedagogia social
Authors: Leiro Augusto Cesar Rios , Moraes Cândida Andrade de , Santos Vanessa Ribeiro dos
Published: November 2021

Considerando o contexto contemporâneo brasileiro, propício a diferentes e novas práticas de educação social, este artigo busca refletir sobre a relevância histórica e política da educação popular e seu entrecruzamento teórico com a pedagogia social. Neste sentido, são apresentadas singularidades da educação socialmente referenciada, tomando duas experiências investigativas de abordagem qualitativa como inspiração. O estudo de caso na perspectiva contrastiva presidiu a metodologia das experiências em tela e a análise de conteúdo, a partir das entrevistas com educadores sociais, constituiu-se em fonte empírica privilegiada. A pedagogia social é abordada como um constructo teórico e como categoria substantiva no campo da educação. A influência da educação popular nas práticas produzidas nos contextos da pedagogia social evidenciam uma estreita relação e favorecem o reconhecimento do legado freireano; as relações entre educadores e educandos; a construção de práxis educativas implicadas às comunidades; a formação continuada comprometida com a emancipação dos sujeitos e a superação das desigualdades sociais. A presente escrita edifica uma nova síntese dos estudos desenvolvidos, em que a educação popular e a pedagogia social promovem experiências formativas significativas, no âmbito da educação social, e expressa o relevo desse campo de estudo como dimensão fundante de uma educação que acolhe os sujeitos na sua diferença.
Climate Change, CO2-Concentration, and the Impact on Long-Term Pollen Observation with Implications for Human Health
Authors:   Research and Consulting, 8905 Arni, Switzerland, Frei Thomas
Published: November 2021

Climate change has a major impact on nature and influences ecological systems. The increase in the CO2-concentration in the atmosphere is a major driver of global warming. This study showed that global warming has a major impact on the release of pollen, and hence, on the people suffering from allergies in Switzerland. Basel is a station where long-term pollen observation is conducted, and the data was used to investigate the change during the last 52 years. There are stations throughout the world to measure the atmospheric CO2 concentration. Data from these stations showed an increase in temperature, which influences the biosphere. We found that the flowering time of Hazel, Birch, and Grass pollen has shifted forward in the corresponding season, inducing hay fever early in spring. Earlier pollen release is strongly correlated with and caused by an increase in temperature. This study showed the relationship between increasing CO2-concentration in the atmosphere, the increasing air temperature followed by increasing and earlier pollen counts, and finally, increasing prevalence of pollinosis over half a century.
Diabetes and Obesity
Authors:   Coillancarraig Lodge, Rocky Valley Drive, Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow, Ireland, Owens Daphne , Tomkin Gerald H
Published: November 2021

Obesity and Diabetes are leading causes of cardiovascular disease and mortality. They are closely linked because of insulin resistance. Hypertension and dyslipidaemia together with poor exercise drive atherosclerosis. Early treatment of blood sugar, dyslipidaemia and hypertension reverse the atherosclerosis process. Bariatric surgery and low calorie diets have in recent years been shown to reverse or improve blood sugars lipids and blood pressure. The risk of premature myocardial infarction and death should no longer be the desired outcome.
A Phenotyping Algorithm to Identify People With HIV in Electronic Health Record Data (HIV-Phen): Development and Evaluation Study
Authors: May Sarah B , Giordano Thomas P , Gottlieb Assaf
Published: November 2021

Background

Identification of people with HIV from electronic health record (EHR) data is an essential first step in the study of important HIV outcomes, such as risk assessment. This task has been historically performed via manual chart review, but the increased availability of large clinical data sets has led to the emergence of phenotyping algorithms to automate this process. Existing algorithms for identifying people with HIV rely on a combination of International Classification of Disease codes and laboratory tests or closely mimic clinical testing guidelines for HIV diagnosis. However, we found that existing algorithms in the literature missed a significant proportion of people with HIV in our data.

Objective

The aim of this study is to develop and evaluate HIV-Phen, an updated criteria-based HIV phenotyping algorithm.

Methods

We developed an algorithm using HIV-specific laboratory tests and medications and compared it with previously published algorithms in national and local data sets to identify cohorts of people with HIV. Cohort demographics were compared with those reported in the national and local surveillance data. Chart reviews were performed on a subsample of patients from the local database to calculate the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy of the algorithm.

Results

Our new algorithm identified substantially more people with HIV in both national (up to an 85.75% increase) and local (up to an 83.20% increase) EHR databases than the previously published algorithms. The demographic characteristics of people with HIV identified using our algorithm were similar to those reported in national and local HIV surveillance data. Our algorithm demonstrated improved sensitivity over existing algorithms (98% vs 56%-92%) while maintaining a similar overall accuracy (96% vs 80%-96%).

Conclusions

We developed and evaluated an updated criteria-based phenotyping algorithm for identifying people with HIV in EHR data that demonstrates improved sensitivity over existing algorithms.