bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water, sanitation and hygiene risk factors for the transmission of cholera in a changing climate: using a systematic review to develop a causal process diagram
Authors: Jones Natalia , Bouzid Maha , Few Roger , Hunter Paul , Lake Iain
Published: January 2020

Cholera is a severe diarrhoeal disease affecting vulnerable communities. A long-term solution to cholera transmission is improved access to and uptake of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Climate change threatens WASH. A systematic review and meta-analysis determined five overarching WASH factors incorporating 17 specific WASH factors associated with cholera transmission, focussing upon community cases. Eight WASH factors showed lower odds and six showed higher odds for cholera transmission. These results were combined with findings in the climate change and WASH literature, to propose a health impact pathway illustrating potential routes through which climate change dynamics (e.g. drought, flooding) impact on WASH and cholera transmission. A causal process diagram visualising links between climate change dynamics, WASH factors, and cholera transmission was developed. Climate change dynamics can potentially affect multiple WASH factors (e.g. drought-induced reductions in handwashing and rainwater use). Multiple climate change dynamics can influence WASH factors (e.g. flooding and sea-level rise affect piped water usage). The influence of climate change dynamics on WASH factors can be negative or positive for cholera transmission (e.g. drought could increase pathogen desiccation but reduce rainwater harvesting). Identifying risk pathways helps policymakers focus on cholera risk mitigation, now and in the future.
Stimulating effect of magnesium hydroxide on aqueous characteristics of iron nanocomposites
Authors: Maamoun I. , Eljamal O. , Falyouna O. , Eljamal R. , Sugihara Y.
Published: January 2020

Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nFe0) tends to aggregate, which dramatically affects its aqueous characteristics and thereby its potential in water treatment applications. Hence, the main aim of this study is to overcome such drawback of nFe0 by a new modification approach. Iron nanoparticles were modified by magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) addition with different mass ratios in order to form a nanocomposite with superior aqueous characteristics. The optimization process of the iron–magnesium nanocomposite (nFe0-Mg) was conducted through different approaches including settlement tests, morphology and crystallinity investigations and particle size estimation. The addition of Mg(OH)2 to nFe0 with a Mg/Fe coating ratio of 100% resulted in stimulated stability of the particles in aqueous suspension with around 95% enhancement in the suspension efficiency compared to that of nFe0. Results showed that the average particle size and degree of crystallinity of nFe0-Mg(Mg/Fe:100%) decreased by 46.7% and increased by 16.8%, respectively, comparing with that of nFe0. Additionally, the iron core of the synthesized nFe0 was adequately protected from aqueous corrosion with lower iron oxides leachates after the optimal modification with Mg(OH)2. Furthermore, Mg(OH)2 coating resulted in a stimulated adsorption reactivity of the composite towards phosphorus (P) with around 3.13% promotion in the removal efficiency comparing to that of nFe0.
Determinantes dos fluxos de caixa de financiamento: um estudo iniciado sob a ótica da concentração acionária
Authors: Barros Manuela Gonçalves , Gomes Marina Oliveira , De Andrade Jéssica Duarte , Sá Kálita Santos
Published: January 2020

Objetivo: Considerando que a literatura indica uma relação entre a captação de recursos externos com a governança corporativa e também entre a governança corporativa e a concentração acionária, este estudo teve por objetivo verificar se a concentração acionária é um determinante dos fluxos de caixa de financiamento, buscando também identificar o impacto de outras determinantes sobre estes fluxos.

Metodologia: A amostra é composta por 284 empresas não financeiras de capital aberto ativas na BM&FBovespa no ano de 2014. Inicialmente, foi utilizada a regressão linear simples, cuja variável dependente foi o fluxo de caixa de financiamento e a variável independente o controle acionário. Para identificar o impacto de outras variáveis determinantes do fluxo de caixa de financiamento, utilizou-se a regressão múltipla, na qual a variável dependente manteve-se a mesma e as variáveis independentes foram: controle acionário, tamanho da empresa, oportunidade de investimento, fluxo de caixa e despesa de capital.

Resultados: Verificou-se que a concentração acionária não é um determinante do fluxo de caixa de financiamento, mas que as demais variáveis testadas impactam o referido fluxo com os sinais esperados, com exceção da oportunidade de investimento, para a qual era esperado um efeito negativo, porém verificou-se um efeito positivo. O resultado referente à concentração acionária contraria esperado, pois, com base na literatura, entende-se haver uma relação entre concentração acionária e o nível de governança corporativa, e que quanto maior o nível de governança, maior a facilidade de captar recursos de terceiros.

Contribuições do Estudo: O trabalho agrega aos demais estudos relativos aos determinantes do saldo de caixa e dos fluxos de caixa realizados no Brasil, visto não ter sido encontrado, na literatura nacional, trabalho com enfoque nos determinantes dos fluxos caixa de financiamento. Além disso, investigou uma variável que não havia ainda sido indicada como uma possível determinante dos fluxos de financiamento.
A eficiência relativa das empresas brasileiras distribuidoras de energia elétrica
Authors: Dos Santos Bastos Chelida Maria , Moreira Chagas Corrêa Denise Maria , Alves Ana Lua Vilanova , De Araújo Cavalcante Sueli Maria , Pereira Rodrigues Ana Carolina
Published: January 2020

Objetivo: A pesquisa objetivou examinar a eficiência relativa dos desempenhos econômico-financeiros das companhias brasileiras abertas e fechadas distribuidoras de energia elétrica.

Metodologia: Esta pesquisa classifica-se como descritiva, quantitativa e documental. Como estratégia do estudo, foi adotada a análise envoltória de dados – DEA, modelo BCC, com foco nos resultados. A amostra foi composta por 33 DMU’s representada pelas companhias distribuidoras de energia elétrica de grande porte que estavam em operação em 2017.

Resultados: Os resultados obtidos apontam que nove (27,27%), entre as 33 companhias alcançaram a fronteira da eficiência e que, entre estas, apenas 2 eram companhias abertas, entretanto, estas duas sozinhas foram referências mais vezes para as ineficientes, respondendo por 50,8% dos benchmarks. Entre as nove companhias eficientes, sete (77,78%) são companhias fechadas, revelando que a abertura de capital não foi um fator determinante para alcançar a eficiência econômica, entretanto, uma vez alcançada tal eficiência, as práticas das duas companhias abertas podem ser referência para a maioria das companhias ineficientes.

Contribuições do Estudo: Estudos anteriores envolvendo a análise envoltória dos dados no setor de energia elétrica não consolidaram no mesmo estudo de eficiência todos os quatro indicadores de rentabilidade estudados em Matarazzo (2010). Portanto, esta pesquisa permitiu ampliar o conhecimento sobre o estudo de eficiência a partir de indicadores econômicos com uso da análise envoltória de dados. Considerando ainda relevante a análise de eficiência tendo como foco o desempenho econômico, o qual consiste nos indicadores de rentabilidade, seja para o acionista por meio da análise do ROE e da ML ou para os gestores das companhias, por meio do ROA e do GA, o que finda por ser relevante para a sociedade, dada a imprescindibilidade deste segmento econômico em qualquer comunidade.
O impacto da adoção do IFRS 9 (CPC 48) nas perdas esperadas em crédito de liquidação duvidosa (PECLD) nas empresas brasileiras do setor de energia elétrica
Authors: Alcantara Alves Aline Thatyana Aranda da Rocha Branco , Bordin Maria Paula Ribeiro , Gonzales Alexandre , Santos Fernando de Almeida
Published: January 2020

Objetivo: Identificar o impacto da adoção do IFRS 9 (CPC 48) nas Perdas Esperadas em Crédito de Liquidação Duvidosa (PECLD) antes baseadas em perdas históricas conforme o CPC 38.

Metodologia: Pesquisa documental, exploratória, com todas as empresas do setor de energia elétrica listadas na Bolsa de Valores do Brasil, denominada, Brasil, Bolsa, Balcão (B3) dos segmentos Novo Mercado (NM), Nível 1(N1) e Nível 2 (N2) de governança corporativa. Analisando as PECLDs divulgadas nas demonstrações financeiras, principalmente notas explicativas (NE) de 2017 e primeiro trimestre de 2018. Para as empresas que divulgaram estes ajustes foram realizados os testes de comparação de média de Wilcoxon e o diagrama de Boxplot.

Resultados: Os resultados mostraram que nem todas as empresas analisadas divulgaram em suas NEs os ajustes e os critérios de contabilização das PECLDs, conforme o CPC 48, e as que divulgaram não demonstraram impacto significativo na adoção do novo CPC.

Contribuições do Estudo: Este artigo contribuiu para a reflexão, compreensão e análise sobre a adoção, impacto e avaliação empírica dos efeitos dos modelos de perdas esperadas em empresas do setor elétrico, corroborando os efeitos da Norma CPC 48 (IRFS 9) nas demonstrações financeiras das empresas classificadas como Novo Mercado, podendo ser úteis ao processo de regulação do segmento, na tomada de decisões e possível compreensão de seus potenciais efeitos, particularmente na adequação das normas multinacionais. Foi verificado se as alterações nas métricas de mensuração de PECLD podem resultar em impactos no resultado do exercício apurado, assim como alterações no valor líquido do ativo circulante, ambos componentes relevantes para tomada de decisão. Tal verificação é relevante para os gestores das empresa e investidores, para segurança em relação a manutenção da forma de verificação de desempenho.
O nível de disclosure em Organizações do Terceiro Setor (OTS) no Estado do Ceará
Authors: Nascimento Roberto Sérgio do , Rabelo Mirela Márjorie Silva , Viotto Ricardo
Published: January 2020

Objetivo: o presente trabalho se propõe a avaliar o nível de transparência apresentado pelas Organizações do Terceiro Setor no Estado do Ceará em relação aos usuários externos, como como forma de reduzir a assimetria informacional entre os agentes internos e externos em alusão à Teoria da Agência.

Metodologia: Com base na legislação vigente e na revisão da literatura científica, selecionou-se um conjunto de itens de divulgação obrigatória e voluntária para compor o indicador de disclosure (ID), o qual foi utilizado para calcular o respectivo nível de disclosure das 100 maiores organizações do Estado do Ceará. A construção do índice tomou como base escala dicotômica, do tipo 0 (zero) e 1 (um), representando respectivamente ausência e presença de informação.

Resultados: Os resultados revelaram um nível maior de evidenciação das informações voluntárias (39%) que obrigatórias (2%), demonstrando que o nível de transparência e accountability não são favoráveis, eis que atingiram somente 41% dos critérios pesquisados.  Avalia-se que os resultados se mostraram contraditórios na medida que essas entidades deveriam atuar provendo informações financeiras e sobre o seu desempenho, e não ao contrário.

Contribuição do Estudo: permitir a avaliação do nível de disclosure das entidades representativas do terceiro setor cearense em termos de divulgação voluntária e obrigatória, possibilitando quanto a falta de divulgação de informações destas organizações.

Palavras-chave: Organização do Terceiro Setor, Disclosure, Informação voluntária e obrigatória; Indicador.
Relação entre as características do comitê de auditoria e da auditoria independente das companhias abertas da B3
Authors: Colares Ana Carolina Vasconcelos , Cruz Alves Karinne , Tereza Fagundes Miranda Lidiane
Published: January 2020

Objetivo: Investigar se existe relação entre as características do Comitê de Auditoria (tamanho; expertise; independência; participação feminina) constituído com as características da Auditoria Independente: (Audit Report Lag; Big Four; quantidade de principais assuntos de auditoria; opinião da auditoria no relatório), sendo essa análise realizada com as características de forma agregada e isolada.

Metodologia: A pesquisa foi realizada inicialmente com 294 entidades, e posteriormente, reduzida a 64 empresas que efetivamente tinham Comitê de Auditoria constituído. Foram estimados quatro clusters para cada grupo de variáveis (auditoria independente e comitê de auditoria) e depois os grupos foram relacionados de forma agregada utilizando a técnica ANACOR, para analisar a relação entre as características apresentadas. Também foi aplicado teste Qui-quadrado a todas as empresas para analisar se existe relação entre o Comitê de Auditoria constituído com as características do relatório de auditoria de forma isolada.

Resultados: Por meio da ANACOR foi verificada apenas uma relação aproximada entre os clusters AUD1 e COM1, sugerindo que as empresas auditadas por Big4 e com maior tempo de entrega do relatório de auditoria, têm Comitês de Auditoria cujos membros possuem expertise, porém há baixa participação feminina. Foi constatada ainda na análise isolada, significância para as variáveis PAA, BIG4 e AUDL, evidenciando que existe relação com a presença do Comitê de Auditoria na entidade.

Contribuições do Estudo: Apenas as análises de forma isolada puderam evidenciar relação entre características da Auditoria Independente com a existência do Comitê de Auditoria, tais como a divulgação dos principais assuntos de auditoria no relatório do auditor independente, o fato da firma ser uma Big Four e o Audit Report Lag. Tal resultado possibilita que as pesquisas futuras possam fundamentar a utilização dessas variáveis, incluindo a divulgação dos PAA que ainda carece de estudos que os relacione com o Comitê de Auditoria.
Indicadores de desenvolvimento sustentável das mesorregiões catarinenses: uma análise comparativa
Authors: Silva Luana Caroline da , Silva da Rosa Fabricia
Published: January 2020

Objetivo: Este estudo tem como objetivo analisar o desempenho sustentável das mesorregiões catarinenses a partir dos indicadores de desenvolvimento sustentável propostos pela Federação Catarinense de Municípios (FECAM).

Metodologia: Para analisar do desempenho sustentável das mesorregiões catarinenses, realizou-se uma pesquisa descritiva, documental e com abordagem quali-quantitativa. A amostra do estudo compreendeu as seis mesorregiões do estado de Santa Catarina, a saber, Serrana, Norte Catarinense, Oeste Catarinense, Sul Catarinense, Vale do Itajaí e Grande Florianópolis. Os dados do Índice de Desenvolvimento Municipal Sustentável - IDMS foram coletados no site da FECAM e compreendem o ano de 2018. A análise considerou as técnicas da estatística descritiva e da correlação.

Resultados: Os resultados revelam um estado formado por 5 mesorregiões que possuem um desempenho sustentável considerado mediano-baixo, e 1 mesorregião com um desempenho sustentável mediano, a qual consiste na mesorregião do Vale do Itajaí cujo IDMS foi de 0,625. Esse resultado está refletido, de modo geral, nos baixos índices de gestão ambiental, dinamismo econômico e distribuição de riqueza, demonstrando que as dimensões Econômica e Ambiental merecem atenção por parte dos gestores públicos municipais, pois ficaram localizadas entre as faixas Médio baixa e Baixa de desenvolvimento sustentável. Nenhuma das quatro dimensões, nem o IDMS consolidado das mesorregiões catarinenses classificam-se com desempenho sustentável considerado Alto ou Médio alto. De modo geral, houve leve piora no desenvolvimento das mesorregiões entre 2016 e 2018.

Contribuições do Estudo: Com a avaliação do desenvolvimento sustentável das mesorregiões, o estudo contribui com a literatura acerca dos sistemas de indicadores a nível regional e para o desenvolvimento regional sustentável permitindo a compreensão do processo de desempenho sustentável dos municípios que compõe essas mesorregiões, além de possibilitar o acompanhamento e a comparabilidade desse desempenho. O estudo também contribui para a implantação da gestão com foco em resultados, que é a principal indicação da nova gestão pública, cuja ênfase incide sobre o uso eficaz da informação.
Indicators of sustainable development of Santa Catarina mesoregions: a comparative analysis
Authors: Luana Caroline da Silva  , Fabricia Silva da Rosa
Published: January 2020

Purpose: This study aims to analyze the sustainable performance of Santa Catarina mesoregions from the sustainable development indicators proposed by the Santa Catarina Federation of Municipalities (FECAM).

Methodology: To analyze the sustainable performance of the Santa Catarina mesoregions, a descriptive, documentary and quali-quantitative research was conducted. The study sample comprised the six mesoregions of the state of Santa Catarina, namely, Serrana, Norte Catarinense, Oeste Catarinense, Sul Catarinense, Vale do Itajaí and Grande Florianópolis. Data from the Municipal Sustainable Development Index - IDMS were collected on the FECAM website and comprise the year 2018. The analysis considered the descriptive statistics and correlation techniques.

Results: The results reveal a state formed by 5 mesoregions that have a sustainable performance considered low-median, and 1 mesoregion with a sustainable average performance, which consists of the Vale do Itajaí mesoregion whose IDMS was 0.625. This result is generally reflected in the low rates of environmental management, economic dynamism and wealth distribution, demonstrating that the Economic and Environmental dimensions deserve attention from municipal public managers, as they were located between Medium-low and Low sustainable development. Neither of the four dimensions nor the consolidated IDMS of Santa Catarina mesoregions is classified with sustainable performance considered High or Medium-high. Overall, there was a slight worsening in the development of the mesoregions between 2016 and 2018.

Contributions of the Study: By assessing the sustainable development of the mesoregions, the study contributes to the literature on regional indicator systems and sustainable regional development, allowing the understanding of the sustainable performance process of the municipalities that make up these mesoregions, as well as enabling the monitoring and the comparability of this performance. The study also contributes to the implementation of results-oriented management, which is the main indication of the new public management, whose emphasis is on the effective use of information.
Perception of corruption in academic environment: empirical analysis from accounting students at the Federal University of Ceará (UFC)
Authors: Roberto Sérgio do Nascimento  , Ruth Carvalho de Santana Pinho
Published: January 2020

Purpose: Corruption is a worldwide phenomenon that affects, indistinctly, both the poor and the rich. As a multidisciplinary phenomenon, understanding the problem has become a complex issue given the diversity of concepts it encompasses and how it presents itself in countries. In this sense, the present work aims to analyze significant aspects of the social profile that influence the perception of corruption by Accounting students at the Federal University of Ceará.

Methodology: The research is descriptive regarding its objectives, quantitative as to its nature and uses a survey as its procedures. A Likert scale questionnaire was used, anonymously filled, composed by four groups of questions, in which 20 questions related to corruption (comprehension, professional impact, current structure of the Accounting program and institutional mechanisms for its combat). The analysis of the results was done through descriptive statistics.

Results: Intermediate positions that do not reveal the total denial or confirmation of the questions presented were considered, which shows that most of the opinions are still under construction. The exception is due to the level of understanding of the phenomenon, which was deemed satisfactory by the researchers. Regarding the intermediate answers, the results point to the need of multiple solutions for the studied phenomenon: improve the way the entire program treats the theme, enhance the understanding of the extent of corruption as a phenomenon that also affects companies and social organizations, and withdraw of the students' understanding that the program should provide knowledge about the modus operandi of corrupt acts.

Contributions of the Study: The study contributes to the development of new ways of approaching corruption in the academic environment, notably the Accounting Program, in order to raise awareness about the subject.
Resenha do Livro: Análises das demonstrações contábeis públicas. Silva, M. C. (2019). (1a ed). São Paulo, SP: Editora Biblioteca 24Horas, 132 páginas, ISBN: 978-85-4161-395-8.
Authors: Camila Rafaelly da Silva Câmara Revorêdo
Published: January 2020

A resenha tem o objetivo de apresentar uma síntese das ideais fundamentais do livro do Professor Doutor Maurício Corrêa da Silva, da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), lançado no ano de 2019, pela Editora Biblioteca 24Horas.
Nível de aderência das empresas brasileiras listadas do setor de telecomunicações ao pronunciamento contábil CPC 47
Authors: Rafael Xavier de Oliveira  , Thais Mota Crabbi  , Jomar Miranda Rodrigues
Published: January 2020

Banco de dados brutos de pesquisa.
Determinantes dos fluxos de caixa de financiamento: um estudo iniciado sob a ótica da concentração acionária
Authors: Manuela Gonçalves Barros  , Marina Oliveira Gomes  , Jéssica Duarte de Andrade Teixeira  , Kálita Santos Sá
Published: January 2020

Banco de dados brutos de pesquisa.
Indicadores de desenvolvimento sustentável das mesorregiões catarinenses: uma análise comparativa
Authors: Luana Caroline da Silva  , Fabricia Silva da Rosa
Published: January 2020

Banco de dados brutos de pesquisa.
ASPECTOS SOCIOECONÔMICOS DA PESCA ARTESANAL DO CAMARÃO MARINHO NA ENSEADA DE LUCENA- PARAÍBA, BRASIL.
Authors: Nascimento Glória Cristina Cornélio do , Córdula Eduardo Beltrão de Lucena , Da Silva Maria Cristina Basílio Crispim
Published: January 2020

A pesca artesanal com arrastão de praia é considerada uma das atividades mais antigas na costa brasileira. O presente estudo objetivou caracterizar o perfil socioeconômico dos pescadores dos arrastões de praia do município de Lucena-Paraíba, Brasil, assim como toda a atividade deste tipo de pesca. A aplicação de formulários semiestruturados ocorreu entre os meses de agosto e setembro de 2016 com (8) donos de arrastos e (43) ajudantes (puxadores de rede). A faixa etária entre os donos da rede variou entre 40-49 anos e os ajudantes 35-24 anos. A escolaridade apresentada na maioria foi o fundamental incompleto, porém ainda com incidência preocupante de analfabetos. A atividade de pesca ocorre todos os dias da semana com exceção dos domingos e os preços da produção do camarão sofrem alterações de acordo com a sazonalidade.
A ESTRUTURA HÍDRICA DO TERRITÓRIO DO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE
Authors: Da Silva Bruno Lopes , Troleis Adriano Lima
Published: January 2020

Resumo. A estrutura hídrica do território do Rio Grande do Norte é composta por elementos naturais e técnicos. Para entender a totalidade dessa estrutura foi preciso considerar esses elementos de forma articulada. Partindo desse princípio, objetivou-se analisar a estrutura hídrica do território do Rio Grande do Norte numa perspectiva sistêmica. Por meio dessa análise, identificou-se três subsistemas, sendo dois naturais e um técnico, que fazem parte da estrutura hídrica do estado do Rio Grande do Norte. Entre esses subsistemas percebeu-se a existência de uma teia de relações funcionais, caracterizada pelos Input e Outputs de água por meio de processos como precipitação, evaporação, afloramento, fluxo fluvial, captação e transporte.

Palavras-Chave: Recursos hídricos; Subsistemas; Elementos naturais e técnicos.
A LEGITIMAÇÃO DOS TERRITÓRIOS QUILOMBOLAS PELO ESTADO
Authors: Melo Santos Viviane , Rocha dos Santos Ana
Published: January 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar a produção de territórios quilombolas no Brasil como um elemento central para a compreensão do direito e acesso à terra – tanto do ponto de vista da legislação que legitima o reconhecimento territorial, através da ação do direta do Estado no sentido de criar os fundamentos jurídicos e legais como o artigo 68 do Ato das Disposições Constitucional e Transitória da Constituição Federal de 1988, quanto da desconcentração e distribuição da terra por meio da materialização efetiva da política no espaço. A metodologia utilizada contempla os procedimentos da pesquisa qualitativa, dados e estudo da literatura.
ENTRAVES AO USO E GOVERNANÇA DE RECURSOS NATURAIS NA AMAZÔNIA MARANHENSE
Authors: Musarra Raíssa
Published: January 2020

Os resultados de duas pesquisas realizadas entre 2010 e 2016 mostram o contexto de precariedade institucional no que tange a respostas às exigências da Ambientalização na governança de recursos naturais na Amazônia maranhense foi revelado através dos seguintes enfoques: 1) na falta de clareza sobre os limites do possível em relação ao uso de recursos naturais na produção da carpintaria artesanal no município de Raposa-MA, revelando alterações na relação dos artesãos com a natureza e seus recursos bem como em sua dinâmica de produção; 2) nas dificuldades operacionais de participação da sociedade civil na governança do Rio Itapecuru, em avançado estado de degradação e sujeito de relações fundadas na ideia de modernização/desenvolvimento. Tais realidades resultam de um quadro relacionado à estruturas de poder pouco democráticas, nos níveis local e estadual, que dificulta a articulação entre atores e políticas que possibilitem a inserção da problemática ambiental na gestão do interesse público local. O texto enfoca os entraves observados nas ferramentas da Ação Pública relacionadas ao uso e governança de recursos naturais a partir das duas realidades abordadas.

Palavras-chave: Governança; Uso de recursos naturais; Ação Pública
ELEMENTOS PRÉ-TEXTUAIS
Authors: (es) Editor
Published: January 2020

Sociedade e Território - Natal Vol. 31, N. 2. Jul./Dez. de 2019.
NOTA EDITORIAL
Authors: (es) Editor
Published: January 2020

Nota editorial

Sociedade e Território – Natal. Vol. 31, N. 2. Jul./Dez. de 2019.
The Renin Angiotensin System and Bipolar Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Barbosa Izabela Guimarães , Ferreira Giulia Campos , Andrade Júnior Diomildo Ferreira , Januário Cássio Rocha , Belisário André Rolim , Bauer Moises Evandro , Simões e Silva Ana Cristina
Published: January 2020

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a chronic a multifactorial psychiatric illness that affects mood,
cognition, and functioning. BD is associated with several psychiatric conditions as well clinical
comorbidities, particularly cardiovascular diseases. The neurobiology of BD is complex and
multifactorial and several systems have been implicated. Considering that the Renin Angiotensin
System (RAS) plays an important role in cardiovascular diseases and that recently evidence has
suggested its role in psychiatric disorders, the aim of the present study is to summarize and to
discuss recent findings related to the modulation of RAS components in BD. A systematic search of
the literature using the electronic databases MEDLINE and LILACS was conducted through March
2019. The search terms were: “Bipolar Disorder”; “Renin Angiotensin System”; “Angiotensin 2”;
“Angiotensin receptors”; “Angiotensin 1-7”; “ACE”; “ACE2”; “Mas Receptor”. We included
original studies assessing RAS in BD patients. Two hundred twenty-two citations were initially
retrieved. Eleven studies were included in our systematic review. In the majority of studies (6 of 8),
the ACE insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism did not differ between BD patients and controls.
BD patients presented higher plasma renin activity in comparison with controls. The studies
evaluating the RAS molecules in BD are very scarce and heterogeneous. The literature suggests a
potential role of RAS in BD. Further studies are necessary to investigate this relationship.
Vilaprisan, a New Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator in Uterine Fibroid Pharmacotherapy-Will it Really be a Breakthrough?
Authors: Ciebiera Michal , Vitale Salvatore G. , Ferrero Simone , Vilos George A. , Barra Fabio , Caruso Salvatore , Laganà Antonio S. , Sierant Antoni , Cianci Antonio , Jakiel Grzegorz
Published: January 2020

Background:

Vilaprisan (VPR) is a new orally available selective progesterone receptor modulator
(SPRM), with anti-proliferative activity against uterine fibroids (UFs). It definitively causes suppression of ovulation
and inhibition of proliferation of endometrial, myometrial and UF cells.

Purpose:

This review aims to summarize current knowledge on VPR from all studies, including clinical trials,
conducted to date and to contextualize the potential role of VPR in future medical regimens for the treatment of
UFs.

Methods:

We performed a literature search in PubMed US National Library of Medicine and Google Scholar
databases. Both databases were extensively searched for all original and review articles/book chapters as well as
congress abstracts published in English until July 2019. The use of VPR for UF therapy was identified by using
the keywords: “uterine fibroids” and “vilaprisan”.

Results:

In phase I and II clinical trials, VPR was shown to be effective in ameliorating UF-related clinical symptoms,
especially abnormal or excessive uterine bleeding and in shrinking UFs. The tolerability of VPR is roughly
similar to that of ulipristal acetate (UPA) and it tends to be more favorable than that of GnRH-agonists.

Conclusion:

Presently, all trials examining the utility of VPR for the treatment of UF are halted; likely, due to the
recently reported cases of hepato-toxicity with UPA, in addition to non reassuring toxicology results from preclinical
long-term testing on rodents, carried out in parallel with late stage testing on humans. An accurate summary
of robust data related to the safety of VPR is urgently needed to draw definitive conclusions on the future
clinical development of this drug for UF therapy.
Synthesis, Conformational Analysis, Infrared, Raman and UV-Visible Spectra of Novel Schiff Bases compiled with DFT Calculations
Authors: Ahmed Samy M. , Shaaban Ibrahim A. , El-Mossalamy Elsayed H. , Mohamed Tarek A.
Published: January 2020

Objective:

Two novel Schiff bases named, 2-((2-Hydroxybenzylidene)amino)-4,5,6,7- tetrahydrobenzo[b] thiophene-3-carbonitrile (BESB1) and 2-((Furan-2-ylmethylene)amino)-4,5,6, 7-tetrahydro-benzo[b]thiophene-3-carbonitrile (BESB2) were synthesized.

Methods:

The structures were characterized based on CHN elemental analysis, mid-infrared (400– 4000 cm-1), Raman (100-4000 cm-1), 1H NMR, mass and UV-Vis spectroscopic measurements. In addition, quantum mechanical calculations using DFT-B3LYP method at 6-31G(d) basis set were carried out for both Schiff bases. Initially, we have carried out complete geometry optimizations followed by frequency calculations for the proposed conformational isomers; BESB1 (A–E) and BESB2 (F–J) based on the orientations of both CN and OH groups against the azomethine lonepair (NLP) in addition to the 3D assumption.

Results:

The computational outcomes favor conformer A for BESB1 in which the C≡N and OH moieties are cis towards the NLP while conformer G is preferred for BESB2 (the C≡N/furan-O are cis/trans towards the NLP) which was found consistent with the results of relaxed potential energy surface scan. Aided by normal coordinate analysis of the Cartesian coordinate displacements, we have suggested reliable vibrational assignments for all observed IR and Raman bands. Moreover, the electronic absorption spectra for the favored conformers were predicted in DMSO solution using TD-B3LYP/6-31G(d) calculations. Similarly, the 1H NMR chemical shifts were also estimated using GIAO approach implementing PCM including solvent effects (DMSO-d6).

Conclusion:

Proper interpretations of the observed electronic transition, chemical shifts, IR and Raman bands were presented in this study.
A Simple Principle for Understanding the Combined Cellular Protein Folding and Aggregation
Authors: Choi Seong Il
Published: January 2020

Proteins can undergo kinetic/thermodynamic partitioning between folding and aggregation. Proper protein folding and thermodynamic stability are crucial for aggregation inhibition. Thus, proteinfolding principles have been widely believed to consistently underlie aggregation as a consequence of conformational change. However, this prevailing view appears to be challenged by the ubiquitous phenomena that the intrinsic and extrinsic factors including cellular macromolecules can prevent aggregation, independently of (even with sacrificing) protein folding rate and stability. This conundrum can be definitely resolved by ‘a simple principle’ based on a rigorous distinction between protein folding and aggregation: aggregation can be controlled by affecting the intermolecular interactions for aggregation, independently of the intramolecular interactions for protein folding. Aggregation is beyond protein folding. A unifying model that can conceptually reconcile and underlie the seemingly contradictory observations is described here. This simple principle highlights, in particular, the importance of intermolecular repulsive forces against aggregation, the magnitude of which can be correlated with the size and surface properties of molecules. The intermolecular repulsive forces generated by the common intrinsic properties of cellular macromolecules including chaperones, such as their large excluded volume and surface charges, can play a key role in preventing the aggregation of their physically connected polypeptides, thus underlying the generic intrinsic chaperone activity of soluble cellular macromolecules. Such intermolecular repulsive forces of bulky cellular macromolecules, distinct from protein conformational change and attractive interactions, could be the puzzle pieces for properly understanding the combined cellular protein folding and aggregation including how proteins can overcome their metastability to amyloid fibrils in vivo.
Cardiovascular Consequences of Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Atzeni Fabiola , Nucera Valeria , Gerratana Elisabetta , Fiorenza Alessia , Gianturco Luigi , Corda Marco , Sarzi-Puttini Piercarlo
Published: January 2020

:

The increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus has been extensively documented. Sub-clinical atherosclerosis can be assessed using various non-invasive imaging techniques. However, the mechanisms underlying the higher risk of atherosclerotic CVD in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases are not fully known, although they seem to include chronic low-grade systemic inflammation leading to prolonged endothelial activation, accompanied by a pro-thrombotic/pro-coagulant and autoantibody state. Furthermore, sub-clinical atherosclerosis is also influenced by other traditional risk factors for CVD. Including the individual components of the metabolic syndrome (MetS: obesity, impaired glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia and high blood pressure), the degree of which is higher in these patients than in controls. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss the CV manifestations and risk factors involved in the increased risk of CVD among patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
Fractions of Boswellia Serrata Suppress LTA4, LTC4, Cyclooxygenase-2 Activities and mRNA in HL-60 Cells and Reduce Lung Inflammation in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Soni Kapil K. , Meshram Deepak , Lawal Temitope O. , Patel Udeshi , Mahady Gail B.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Purified fractions from a Boswellia serrata Roxb. Ex. Colebr. (Burseraceae)
extract (ETOH and DCM) contain biologically active compounds that are well known for
having inflammation inhibitory properties. In this work, the purified fractions were tested in-vitro
for LTC4, LTA4 and COX-2 activities using ELISA and qPCR was performed to determine gene
regulation in human leukemia (HL-60) Cells. Two D-imaging tomography was performed to determine
the anti-inflammatory activities of the fractions in BALB/c mouse model of lung inflammation.

Objective:

To evaluate anti-inflammatory activities of bioactive compounds of Boswellia serrata
purified fractions.

Methods:

In-vitro MTT assay was performed in HL-60 cell lines for measuring the toxicity/
viability of the cells. ELISA tests were performed for evaluating LTA4, LTC4 and COX-2 activities.
qPCR was performed to evaluate the expression of mRNA in HL-60 cells. In-vivo experiments
were performed in OVA sensitized and challenged BALB/c mice at two doses of Boswellia
serrata purified fraction containing 6% Boswellic acid of 50 and 100mg/kg body weight were
given orally and the standard drug dexamethasone (DXA, 4 mg/kg body weight) and reduction in
lung inflammation was assessed by using an IVIS Xenogen in-vivo fluorescence imaging system.

Results:

A purified fraction of Boswellia serrata ETOH extracts reduced leukotriene-C4-synthase
activity by 52%, leuktotriene-A4-hydrolase activity by 22% and COX-2 activity by 99% with an
IC50 of 12.5μg/ml. Intragastric administration of the purified fraction of Boswellia serrata at two
doses of 50mg/kg b.w. and 100mg/kg b.w., respectively along with 2-3% HPMC resulted in a
~51% (P value <0.01) reduction in OVA induced lung inflammation in BALB/c mice as observed
by imaging tomography. Treatment of the OVA challenged mice with standard drug dexamethasone
(DXA) reduced inflammation by ~66% with significant value (P<0.0001).

Conclusion:

The present study describes that Boswellia serrata ethanolic extracts purified fraction
(ETOH-BS) possess significant anti-inflammatory activities in HL-60 and in BALB/c and further
supports for its use as Ayurvedic medicines traditionally in the treatment of lung disorders including
allergy and asthma.
Physiological and Biochemical Characteristics of Two Soybean Cultivars with Different Seed Vigor During Seed Physiological Maturity
Authors: Wei Jiaping , Zhao Haihong , Liu Xiaolin , Liu Sushuang , Li Linzhi , Ma Hao
Published: January 2020

Background:

The soybean seed’s physiological maturity (R7) period is an extraordinary period
for the formation of seed vigor. However, how proteins and their related metabolic pathways in
seed and leaf change during seed physiological maturity is still not fully understood.

Methods:

In the present study, using a pair of pre-harvest seed deterioration-sensitive and -resistant
soybean cultivars Ningzhen No. 1 and Xiangdou No. 3, the changes were investigated through analyzing
leaf, cotyledon and embryo at the levels of protein, ultrastructure, and physiology and biochemistry.

Results:

Soybean cultivars with stronger photosynthetic capacity in leaf, higher nutrients accumulation
and protein biosynthesis in cotyledon, as well as stronger resistant-pathogen ability and cell stability in
embryo during seed physiological maturity, would produce higher vitality seeds.

Conclusion:

Such a study allows us to further understand the changes at protein, ultrastructure, and
physiology and biochemistry levels in developing seeds during the physiological maturity and provide
a theoretical basis for cultivating soybean cultivars with higher seed vigor.
Comparative Analysis of Skeleton Muscle Proteome Profile between Yak and Cattle Provides Insight into High-Altitude Adaptation
Authors: Xin Jin-Wei , Chai Zhi-Xin , Zhang Cheng-Fu , Yang Yu-Mei , Zhang Qiang , Zhu Yong , Cao Han-Wen , YangJi Cidan , Zhong Jin-Cheng , Ji Qiu-Mei
Published: January 2020

Background::

Mechanisms underlying yak adaptation to high-altitude environments have been investigated at the levels of morphology, anatomy, physiology, genome and transcriptome, but have not been explored at the proteome level.

Objective:

The protein profiles were compared between yak and cattle to explore molecular mechanisms underlying yak adaptation to high altitude conditions.

Methods:

In the present study, an antibody microarray chip was developed, which included 6,500 mouse monoclonal antibodies. Immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry were performed on 12 selected antibodies which showed that the chip was highly specific. Using this chip, muscle tissue proteome was compared between yak and cattle, and 12 significantly Differentially Expressed Proteins (DEPs) between yak and cattle were identified. Their expression levels were validated using Western blot.

Results:

ompared with cattle, higher levels of Rieske Iron-Sulfur Protein (RISP), Cytochrome C oxidase subunit 4 isoform 1, mitochondrial (COX4I1), ATP synthase F1 subunit beta (ATP5F1B), Sarcoplasmic/ Endoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase1 (SERCA1) and Adenosine Monophosphate Deaminase1 (AMPD1) in yak might improve oxygen utilization and energy metabolism. Pyruvate Dehydrogenase protein X component (PDHX) and Acetyltransferase component of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (DLAT) showed higher expression levels and L-lactate dehydrogenase A chain (LDHA) showed lower expression level in yak, which might help yak reduce the accumulation of lactic acid. In addition, higher expression levels of Filamin C (FLNC) and low levels of AHNAK and Four and a half LIM domains 1 (FHL1) in yak might reduce the risks of pulmonary arteries vasoconstriction, remodeling and hypertension.

Conclusion:

Overall, the present study reported the differences in protein profile between yak and cattle, which might be helpful to further understand molecular mechanisms underlying yak adaptation to high altitude environments.
Comparative Assessment of Free Radical Scavenging Ability of Green and Red Cabbage Based on Their Antioxidant Vitamins and Phytochemical Constituents
Authors: Ashfaq Faiza , Butt Masood S. , Bilal Ahmad , Tehseen Saima , Suleria Hafiz A.R.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Nowadays, bioactive moieties of plants are gaining attention amongst the
masses to mitigate lifestyle related dysfunctions owing to their safe nature and functional properties.

Objective:

Considering phytochemistry and cost-effectiveness of cabbage, the current project was designed
to probe the antioxidant capacity of locally grown green and red cabbage.

Methods:

The total polyphenols and free radical scavenging ability of red and green cabbage were determined
using spectrophotometer while HPLC analysis was carried out to further fractionate phenolic
acids and flavonoid constituents. Apart from this, antioxidant vitamins including vitamin C tocopherol
and β-carotene were also detected using HPLC system.

Results:

The red cabbage showed higher amount of total polyphenols and flavonoids (224.37±6.96 &
219.15±10.30 mg/100g F.W.) than green cabbage (58.41±3.01 & 34.04±1.06 mg/100g F.W.) along with
the existence of anthocyanins (69.86±4.12 mg/100g F.W.) in red cabbage. Comparative HPLC analysis
regarding antioxidant moieties showed significant proportion of kempferol (171.10±5.99 mg/100g
F.W.) followed by vitamin C (139.07±2.23 mg/100g F.W.) in red cabbage however, vitamin C
(121.46±3.28 mg/100g F.W.) was found as the major antioxidant in green cabbage. The red cabbage
depicted higher free radical quenching and reducing ability in contrast to green cabbage using DPPH (1,
1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS [2, 2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)], FRAP
(ferric reducing antioxidant power) and PFRAP (potassium ferricyanide reducing antioxidant power)
and H2O2 scavenging ability assays.

Conclusion:

In the nutshell, red cabbage showed better free radical scavenging ability as compared to
green cabbage based on variation and quantification of antioxidant indices.
Utilization of Lipid-based Nanoparticles to Improve the Therapeutic Benefits of Bortezomib
Authors: Korani Mitra , Korani Shahla , Zendehdel Elham , Jaafari Mahmoud R. , Sathyapalan Thozhukat , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: January 2020

Cancer is a condition where there is an uncontrolled growth of cells resulting in high mortality. It is the second most frequent cause of death worldwide. Bortezomib (BTZ) is a Proteasome Inhibitor (PI) that is used for the treatment of a variety of cancers. It is the first PI that has received the approval of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat mantle cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma. High incidence of sideeffects, limited dose, low water solubility, fast clearance, and drug resistance are the significant limitations of BTZ. Therefore, various drug delivery systems have been tried to overcome these limitations of BTZ in cancer therapy. Nanotechnology can potentially enhance the aqueous solubility of BTZ, increase its bioavailability, and control the release of BTZ at the site of administration. The lipid-based nanocarriers, such as liposomes, solid lipid NPs, and microemulsions, are some of the developments in nanotechnology, which could potentially enhance the therapeutic benefits of BTZ.
The Mixed AII and BIII Genotypes of Human Giardia lamblia Isolate Circulating in Mazandaran Province, Northern Iran
Authors: Kialashaki Elham , Fakhar Mahdi , Sharif Mehdi , Daryani Ahmad , Saberi Reza
Published: January 2020

Objectives:

Giardiasis is one of the human parasitic diseases by a flagellate protozoan
named Giardia lamblia. This parasite is one of the most common organisms causing diarrhea in
humans and a common gastrointestinal parasite in vertebrates. The purpose of this investigation was
to determine the molecular epidemiology of Giardia lamblia (G. lamblia) by PCR-RFLP method in
the Mazandaran Province and to investigate the possible relationship between parasite genotype and
clinical symptoms.

Methods:

In this study, 50 stool samples were collected from human cases of G. lamblia. referred to
health centers in Sari, Babol, Nowshahr cities. The samples were examined by formalin-ether concentration
procedure. DNA extraction was carried out on samples containing adequate Giardia
cysts, and then PCR-RFLP was done on glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) marker.

Results:

In these patients, the most common signs were abdominal pain (42.9%), and diarrhea
(47.6%); and least marked common sign was malaise (4.7%). Of all 21 isolates, 9 samples (42.8%)
were found as genotype mixed AII and BIII, 6 samples (28.6%) belonged to genotype BIII and 6
(28.6%) were of genotype AII. Additionally, there was a significant correlation between AII genotype
and clinical symptoms (P <0.05). According to the statistical tests, there was a significant relationship
between abdominal pain and the intensity of infection (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

However, genotype AII and mixed AII and BIII genotypes were more common, respectively.
The relatively high prevalence of mixed infection of these genotypes indicated the potential
of zoonotic source of giardiasis among patients in Mazandaran Province.