bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AP-1 Proteins Mediate Hyperglycemia-Induced Activation of the Human TGF-β1 Promoter in Mesangial Cells
Authors: WEIGERT CORA , SAUER ULRICH , BRODBECK KATRIN , PFEIFFER ANDREAS , HA[Combining Diaeresis]RING HANS U. , SCHLEICHER ERWIN D.
Published: April 2021

Hyperglycemia-induced overproduction of the prosclerotic cytokine transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. Because high glucose and phorbol esters (PMA) increase TGF-β1 mRNA levels in mesangial cells, this study was designed to characterize these effects on the human TGF-β1 promoter activity. With the use of luciferase reporter gene constructs containing TGF-β1 5′-flanking sequence (from -453 to +11 bp) transfected into mesangial cells, it was found that 30 mM glucose induced a nearly twofold increase in TGF-β1 promoter activity after 24 h of incubation in human and porcine mesangial cells. Stimulation by PMA was more effective (2.3-fold). Mutagenesis in either one of the two or both activating protein-1 (AP-1) binding sites abolished the high glucose and the PMA effect. Furthermore, addition of the AP-1 inhibitor curcumin obliterated the glucose response. Corresponding experiments revealed that the transcription factor stimulating protein 1 was not involved in mediating the glucose effect. The high glucose-induced TGF-β1 promoter activation was also prevented by inhibitors of protein kinase C and p38 mitogen-activated proteinkinase. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays with oligonucleotides containing one of the two AP-1 binding sites showed that glucose treatment markedly enhanced the binding activity of nuclear proteins of mesangial cells, particularly to box B. Supershift assays demonstrated that JunD and c-Fos were present in the protein-DNA complexes under control and hyperglycemic conditions. The functional and structural results show that glucose regulates human TGF-β1 gene expression through two adjacent AP-1 binding sites and gives rise to the involvement of protein kinase C and p38 mitogen-activated proteinkinase in hyperglycemia-induced TGF-β1 gene expression.
JB3, an IGF-I Receptor Antagonist, Inhibits Early Renal Growth in Diabetic and Uninephrectomized Rats
Authors: HAYLOR JOHN , HICKLING HELEN , EL ETER EMAN , MOIR ARTHUR , OLDROYD SIMON , HARDISTY COLIN , EL NAHAS A. MEGUID
Published: April 2021

Biochemical evidence suggests that insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) may play an important role as a mediator of kidney growth. In the present study, an IGF-I receptor antagonist (JB3) was synthesized, and its effect on the renal growth that follows the induction of diabetes or unilateral nephrectomy (UNx) was examined. JB3 was generated by solid phase peptide synthesis. Its activity as an IGF-I antagonist was confirmed in an opossum kidney cell line from its inhibitory effect on the increase in thymidine incorporation into DNA induced by recombinant human IGF-I. Male Wistar rats were anesthetized with halothane and subjected to either the induction of diabetes by streptozotocin (intravenous 60 mg/kg) for 4 d (control animals received citrate buffer) or UNx for 11 d (control animals were sham operated). JB3 was delivered by subcutaneous infusion using an osmotic minipump implanted 3 d before the induction of diabetes or UNx. Kidney wet weight, DNA, and protein all were significantly higher 4 d after the induction of diabetes (24%) or 11 d after UNx (55%). Dose-response studies (1 to 30 μg/kg per day) showed JB3 administration to inhibit the increase in kidney growth in both diabetic and UNx rats. The increase in kidney wet weight, DNA, and protein was significantly lower in UNx rats that were treated with JB3 10 μg/kg per day (P < 0.05) than in saline vehicle controls but was abolished in diabetic rats that were treated with JB3 3 μg/kg per day (P < 0.01). Increasing the dose of JB3 to 30 μg/kg per day was associated with a decrease in its inhibitory effect, resulting in bell-shaped dose-response curves. JB3 administration had no effect on the blood glucose concentration or food consumption by either diabetic or nondiabetic animals. The results support the concept of IGF-I as an important mediator of the early renal growth that follows the induction of diabetes or UNx in the rat.
Glomerular Monocyte-Macrophage Features in ANCA-Positive Renal Vasculitis and Cryoglobulinemic Nephritis
Authors: RASTALDI MARIA PIA , FERRARIO FRANCO , CRIPPA ANDOR , DELL'ANTONIO GIACOMO , CASARTELLI DONATELLA , GRILLO CARLO , D'AMICO GIUSEPPE
Published: April 2021

Although it is widely known that many macrophages are present in glomeruli of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-positive renal vasculitis (ANCA + RV) and are believed to contribute to necrotizing extracapillary damage, their precise role is not yet completely understood, especially in humans. The goal of this study was to provide evidence of glomerular macrophage properties in human vasculitis. Twenty-five renal biopsies of ANCA + RV and 18 cases of cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis (cryoGN), a disease characterized by massive glomerular macrophage infiltration but absence of necrotizing extracapillary lesions, were selected, and macrophage number, adhesion, acute activation, proliferation, and apoptosis were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. Accumulation of macrophages in ANCA + RV was found in areas of glomerular active lesions, whereas in cryoGN, they homogeneously occupied the entire glomerular tuft. Considering the areas of accumulation, comparable macrophage numbers were detected in both diseases. Glomerular vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 was found only in ANCA + RV and only in areas of active lesions. Acute macrophage activation (HLA class II, 27E10) and proinflammatory cytokine production (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1α) were prominent in ANCA + RV, whereas in cryoGN, 30% of glomerular macrophages seemed activated and cytokine expression was limited to a few glomerular cells (P = 0.01). Moreover, only in ANCA + RV proliferative markers were shown on glomerular macrophages and apoptotic macrophages were found. From the data, it seems that ANCA + RV and cryoGN differ profoundly in macrophage properties, namely adhesion, proliferation, and apoptotic clearance. Moreover, acute activation and cytokine production seem to be present in a greater number of macrophages in ANCA + RV, giving this disease a stronger severity that could be taken into account for therapeutic strategies.
Tunneled-Cuffed Catheter Associated Infections in Hemodialysis Patients Who Are Seropositive for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: MOKRZYCKI MICHELE H. , SCHRO[Combining Diaeresis]PPEL BERND , GERSDORFF GERO VON , RUSH HEATHER , ZDUNEK MIROSLAW P. , FEINGOLD ROBERT
Published: April 2021

Infection rates in tunneled-cuffed catheters (TCC) are reported to be higher in immunocompromised patients. The purpose of this study was to evaluate TCC-associated infection rates in patients with HIV infection (HIV+). Data were collected in 40 HIV + patients and 41 controls (C), and in 118 TCC (HIV+, 58; C, 60) for 28,146 catheter days (HIV+, 16,227; C, 11,919). There were no significant differences in the TCC bacteremia rates (HIV+, 2.23 versus C, 2.53 per 1000 TCC days, P = NS) or in the TCC exit site infection rates (HIV+, 2.20 versus C, 2.24 per 1000 TCC days, P = NS) between the groups. The number of TCC removed due to infection was also similar, (HIV+ versus C: 17 versus 15%, P = NS). In the HIV+ group, the association of hepatitis B surface antigenemia with TCC exit site infection was dependent on the history of injection drug use. Black race was a significant risk factor for higher TCC exit site infection rates, whereas prophylactic antibiotic use and high CD4 count were significantly associated with lower TCC exit site infection rates. None of the factors significantly predicted bacteremia rate in either group (HIV+ or C). In comparison to controls, HIV+ patients had a fivefold increased risk of having a Gramnegative organism (P = 0.02) and a sevenfold increased risk of a fungal isolate (P = 0.08), although the latter finding was not statistically significant. HIV infection is not a significant risk factor for TCC-associated infection but is associated with a higher prevalence of Gram-negative and fungal species.
Chronic Angiotensin II Infusion But Not Bradykinin Blockade Abolishes the Antiproteinuric Response to Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibition in Established Adriamycin Nephrosis
Authors: WAPSTRA FRITS H. , NAVIS GERJAN , DE JONG PAUL E. , DE ZEEUW DICK
Published: April 2021

Angiotensin-convernting enzyme (ACE) inhibition reduces proteinuria in established adriamycin nephrosis. To investigate whether the reduction in proteinuria is due to decreased generation of angiotensin II (AngII) or to decreased degradation of bradykinin, four series of experiments in established adriamycin nephrosis were performed. In the first series, 2 mg/kg lisinopril reduced BP from 117 ± 4 to 67 ± 2 mmHg and proteinuria from 335 ± 66 to 57 ± 10 mg/24 h after 2 wk of treatment. Subsequent continuous intraperitoneal infusion of AngII (250 ng/kg per min) for 2 wk partially restored proteinuria to 180 ± 42 mg/24 h, whereas BP increased to 97 ± 3 mmHg. Subsequent withdrawal of AngII restored the antiproteinuric effects of lisinopril, whereas subsequent withdrawal of lisinopril restored proteinuria to pretreatment values. In the second series, AT1 receptor blockade induced a fall in BP and proteinuria similar to that by lisinopril. In the third series, lisinopril reduced BP from 121 ± 5 to 68 ± 2 mmHg and proteinuria from 355 ± 90 to 101 ± 10 mg/24 h. Subsequent intraperitoneal infusion of bradykinin antagonist (HOE 140; 1 mg/kg per 24 h) for 2 wk did not affect BP (72 ± 2 mmHg) or proteinuria (92 ± 15 mg/24 h). In the fourth series, bradykinin (3 mg/kg per 24 h) was infused for 2 wk to mimic decreased bradykinin breakdown. This did not affect proteinuria, but induced a fall in BP from 114 ± 3 to 93 ± 4 mmHg. The BP-lowering effect of exogenous bradykinin was completely reversed by 1 wk infusion of HOE 140 (93 ± 4 to 113 ± 4 mmHg), while proteinuria remained unchanged. In conclusion, the antiproteinuric effect of ACE inhibition appears to be independent of bradykinin in this model, supporting a main role for reduction of AngII in the antiproteinuric action of ACE inhibition.
Comparison of Statistical Methods for Obtaining Image from Video Frames Based on Development of Quality Metric
Authors: GÜNGÖR Murat Alparslan
Published: April 2021

Digital images obtained from the video frames have an important role in different areas. Many image processing techniques have been applied to these images for different purposes such as edge detection. For a better image processing application, it is very important to obtain images with less oscillation from the video. Depending on the camera and environmental conditions, there are differences between consecutive frames. This means images with oscillation. Multiple frames can be used with different statistical methods to obtain images with less oscillation. In this paper, we developed a quality metric to compare the frames or images according to the amount of oscillation. Then a comparative study of statistical methods used to obtain the images with less oscillation from the video frames was presented. Images were obtained using four statistical methods for the different numbers of frames. This study also aims to evaluate how the choice of statistical method affects the oscillation of images using the developed quality metric and to compare the processing times of the methods.
Effects of Climate Change on Distribution Areas of Former Endemic Plant Species Campanula lyrata Lam.
Authors: GÜLER Behlül
Published: April 2021

Species distribution models (SDMs) are useful tools for future potential distribution patterns of species in the face of climate change. Turkey is expected to be affected considerably from climatic change i.e., up to 6°C increase in temperature and 50% decrease in precipitation by 2070. Therefore, there is an urgent need for conservation and management practices for future patterns of species. It is aimed current and future (using CMIP5 projected to 2070) potential distribution areas of Campanula lyrata Lam., which is formerly an endemic species. To do this, presence-only data was used, which is obtained from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Bioclimatic data from was downloaded from WorldClim dataset with 10 km2 resolution. Species distribution modelling was performed using R program. Two regression techniques and two machine learning techniques namely Generalized Linear Models (GLMs), Generalized Additive Models (GAMs), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF), were used, respectively. The bootstrapping method as partitioning resampling was also used for all analysis. Considerably high model performances as well as AUC values for all possible models were found. Significant range shifts between current and future climatic conditions were found. The most relevant relative importance variables were precipitation seasonality and precipitation of the wettest month. This study reveals the importance of the future distributional areas of species.Species distribution models (SDMs) are useful tools for future potential distribution patterns of species in the face of climate change. Turkey is expected to be affected considerably from climatic change i.e., up to 6°C increase in temperature and 50% decrease in precipitation by 2070. Therefore, there is an urgent need for conservation and management practices for future patterns of species. It is aimed current and future (using CMIP5 projected to 2070) potential distribution areas of Campanula lyrata Lam., which is formerly an endemic species. To do this, presence-only data was used, which is obtained from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). Bioclimatic data from was downloaded from WorldClim dataset with 10 km2 resolution. Species distribution modelling was performed using R program. Two regression techniques and two machine learning techniques namely Generalized Linear Models (GLMs), Generalized Additive Models (GAMs), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF), were used, respectively. The bootstrapping method as partitioning resampling was also used for all analysis. Considerably high model performances as well as AUC values for all possible models were found. Significant range shifts between current and future climatic conditions were found. The most relevant relative importance variables were precipitation seasonality and precipitation of the wettest month. This study reveals the importance of the future distributional areas of species.
SISTEMA UNA-SUS COMO FERRAMENTA DE DEMOCRATIZAÇÃO DA EDUCAÇÃO PERMANENTE EM SAÚDE
Authors: Da Silva Gasque Kellen Cristina , Magalhães de Souza Rodrigues Moreno , Feliciano Lemos Alysson , De Guimarães Araújo Daniel
Published: April 2021

O Sistema UNA-SUS foi instituído em atenção à Política Nacional de Educação Permanente em Saúde, composta de uma rede de 34 instituições responsáveis por ofertas educacionais on-line, em resposta às demandas geradas pelo Ministério da Saúde. Objetivos: verificar o perfil dos usuários e a capilarizarão dos cursos autoinstrucionais da UNA-SUS e a possível contribuição para a democratização da educação permanente dos trabalhadores da saúde. Métodos: levantamento de dados na Plataforma Arouca e análise do software estatístico livre R 3.6. Resultados: houve mais de 2,7 milhões de matrículas em cursos autoinstrucionais da UNA-SUS e capilaridade para todas as regiões de saúde, todos os municípios brasileiros e todos os estados, sendo que a maior procura foi por cursos relacionados a importantes situações clínicas enfrentadas pelos profissionais da Atenção Básica. Houve predomínio de mulheres (80%), brancos (36%), seguidos por pardos (33%), solteiros (57%) e na faixa etária de 21 a 40 anos (70%). Enfermeiros, médicos e dentistas foram os profissionais que mais procuraram cursos da UNA-SUS. Não houve relação entre o número de matrícula em cursos autoinstrucionais ponderados pela população e o IDH do estado, porém foi estabelecida uma relação negativa entre o coeficiente de Gini e o número de  matrículas nos cursos; quanto mais desigual a região, menos alunos matriculados ela possuía. Conclusão: o Sistema UNA-SUS mostrou-se efetivo em oportunizar a Educação Permanente aos trabalhadores da saúde residentes em todas as regiões geográficas do país, incluindo aqueles de áreas com poucas ofertas educacionais presenciais ou gratuitas, contribuindo para a democratização da educação no país.
Experimental study of convective dryer with centrifugal fluidized bed
Authors: Nadeev A.A. , Barakov A.V. , Prutskikh D.A. , Dubanin V.Y. , Naumov A.M.
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, the units with a fluidized bed hold a special place among all heat-mass transfer plants currently used in industry. First of all, it is due to the highly developed surface of interaction between the fluidizing agent (air) and dispersed materials in such units, their low hydraulic resistance, relatively simple design and small sizes. At the same time, the units with a centrifugal fluidized bed, which is formed in an annular channel of the working chamber when a fluidizing agent is added under the fixed angle, are of particular interest. Currently, a limited number of experimental and theoretical studies of hydrodynamics and heat-mass transfer in a fluidized bed are known. Besides, these studies were carried out mainly in respect to regenerative heat exchangers and absorbers. In this regard, such studies in respect to the devices for other purposes, such as dryers, seem to be relevant. The results of these studies are the scientific backgrpund for development of an engineering calculation methodology of such units and their design. The study has been carried out based on an experimental plant using means for measuring temperature, relative air humidity, differential pressure, air velocity, and moisture content of solids. A TPM 148 PID controller has been used as a secondary device. Experimental data have been recorded in MasterSCADA SCADA system. Data processing has been carried out using interpolation by cubic splines. The article describes in detail an experimental plant that allows carrying out a full factor experiment to study the hydrodynamic and thermal parameters of a convective dryer with a centrifugal fluidized bed. The article presents the results of a preliminary series of experiments in which silica gel is used as a dispersed material. As a result of visual observations over the dispersed material in the working chamber, the values of the minimum and maximum speed of the drying agent have been determined. The grafic relationship of the hydraulic resistance of the working chamber and the height of the material layer are obtained depending on the speed of the drying agent and the mass of the material, as well as the temperature and moisture content of the material and the drying agent depending on the drying time. The results obtained make it possible to determine the design and operational parameters of the centrifugal fluidized bed drying plant and select a fan to supply the drying agent.
Integrated methodology to calculate nonsinusoidal AC systems of high frequency
Authors: Gusenkov A.V. , Dyachkov A.A. , Lebedev V.D. , Sokolov A.M. , Shadrikov T.E.
Published: April 2021

During the research and development of fundamentally new AC systems of high frequency, the authors identified the problems of the calculations and modeling of the operating modes of such systems according to the method of Yu.M. Osipova. Application of the method gives results that are significantly different from the experimental ones. The aim of the study is to improve the methodology considering the features of high-frequency electrical systems, their topology, and components. The research has been carried out based on a mathematical model of an electrical system of high frequency, which includes a power supply, matching transformers, cable lines and a load. The power supply is modeled in a simplified form with the internal resistance of the transistors. An analytical technique for calculating and modeling high-frequency AC systems has been developed. Analytical expressions are presented to calculate the characteristics and parameters of the high frequency system components. Recommendations on automation of the developed technique using MATLAB, Python or Simulink are presented.Comparison of the results of calculation and the experiment is carried out to confirm the reliability. The results of the research work can be used for modeling and calculating high frequency alternating current systems to determine the current load, voltage levels, analyze overvoltages and emergency modes.
Editorial: Is There a New Climate Politics?
Authors: Davies Anna R. , Castán Broto Vanesa , Hügel Stephan
Published: April 2021

Addressing climate change globally requires significant transformations of production and consumption systems. The language around climate action has shifted tangibly over the last five years to reflect this. Indeed, thousands of local governments, national governments, universities and scientists have declared a climate emergency. Some commentators argue that the emergency framing conveys a new and more appropriate level of urgency needed to respond to climate challenges; to create a social tipping point in the fight against climate change. Others are concerned to move on from such emergency rhetoric to urgent action. Beyond emergency declarations, new spaces of, and places for, engagement with climate change are emerging. The public square, the exhibition hall, the law courts, and the investors’ forum are just some of the arenas where climate change politics are now being negotiated. Emergent governing mechanisms are being utilised, from citizens’ assemblies to ecocide lawsuits. New social movements from Extinction Rebellion to Fridays For Future demonstrate heightened concern and willingness to undertake civil disobedience and protest against climate inaction. Yet questions remain which are addressed in this thematic issue: Are these discourses and spaces of engagement manifestations of a radical new climate politics? And if these are new climate politics, do they mark a shift of gear in current discourses with the potential to effect transformative climate action and support a just transition to a decarbonised world?
PERFIL EPIDEMIOLÓGICO DAS PESSOAS ATENDIDAS POR INTOXICAÇÃO EXÓGENA EM UMA UNIDADE DE PRONTO ATENDIMENTO
Authors: Ferreira Jackson Soares , Silva Glaydes Nely Sousa da , Monte Camila Ferreira do , Beserra Bárbara Aparecida Da Silveira , Alves Salmana Rianne Pereira , Ferreira Adelson Francisco
Published: April 2021

A intoxicação é a apresentação clínica de efeitos prejudiciais, por interação com substâncias químicas e quando relacionada ao adulto, em sua maioria, a intoxicação exógena está associada às tentativas de suicídio. A pesquisa objetivou investigar o perfil das pessoas atendidas por intoxicação exógena em uma Unidade de Pronto Atendimento. Trata-se de uma pesquisa documental retrospectiva, com abordagem quantitativa, realizada em prontuários de pacientes atendidos de novembro de 2018 a julho de 2019, por intoxicação exógena, em uma Unidade de Pronto Atendimento de João Pessoa, Paraíba, aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética e Pesquisa, sob o CAAE: 20669019.6.0000.5179. Após investigar todos os atendimentos que aconteceram no período e excluídos os prontuários com rasuras e grafias incompreensíveis, a amostra foi composta por 77 prontuários. Como resultado da pesquisa, observou-se 42,8% com idade entre 19 e 30 anos, sendo 55,8% dos atendidos do gênero feminino. 57,1% tem nível médio de escolaridade, 31,2% eram estudantes e 63,6% solteiros. Identificou-se 57,1% de intoxicação por medicações, sendo que 80,5% não apresentam transtorno mental; 90,9% dos intoxicados não fazem uso de medicação alopática e 87% não tem acompanhamento com especialista. Constatou-se que a principal causa da intoxicação exógena se deu através da violência autoprovocada por medicação, mas que nem sempre se tem relação com transtornos mentais. Entretanto, observou-se, através da análise dos resultados obtidos por meio dos prontuários, a prevalência da depressão, com hegemonia de casos em mulheres.
How Do Statistical Parameters of Induced Seismicity Correlate with Fluid Injection? Case of Oklahoma
Authors: Aochi Hideo , Maury Julie , Le Guenan Thomas
Published: April 2021

The seismicity evolution in Oklahoma between 2010 and 2018 is analyzed systematically using an epidemic-type aftershock sequence model. To retrieve the nonstationary seismicity component, we systematically use a moving window of 200 events, each within a radius of 20 km at grid points spaced every 0.2°. Fifty-three areas in total are selected for our analysis. The evolution of the background seismicity rate μ is successfully retrieved toward its peak at the end of 2014 and during 2015, whereas the triggering parameter K is stable, slightly decreasing when the seismicity is activated. Consequently, the ratio of μ to the observed seismicity rate is not stationary. The acceleration of μ can be fit with an exponential equation relating μ to the normalized injected volume. After the peak, the attenuation phase can be fit with an exponential equation with time since peak as the independent variable. As a result, the evolution of induced seismicity can be followed statistically after it begins. The turning points, such as activation of the seismicity and timing of the peak, are difficult to identify solely from this statistical analysis and require a subsequent mechanical interpretation.
Effects of School Shooting on School Climate: A Review of Social Bond Theory
Authors: Erbay Ayhan , Ildırım Ezgi
Published: April 2021

Although school shooting is among the primary problems of society from time to time, it is in reality an issue that society pays attention to when such an event breaks out. School shooting, on the other hand, has a devastating impact on students, teachers, and other school staff, as well as deeply shaking the school climate. At this point, Social Bond Theory has been used as a theoretical framework to understand the effects of the school shooting. The theory proposes that when school shooting occurs especially students de-attach from school, therefore from the society. They do not commit to social norms and rules, and eventually, lose their faith in society because of their school shooting. In this study, it was discussed how the school shootings effect the school climate, and some prevention suggestions were developed.
Termal Yanıklı Hastaların Medikolegal Değerlendirmesi
Authors: Karabağ Gökmen , Can İsmail Özgür , Demiroğlu Uyanıker Zehra , Vayvada Haluk
Published: April 2021

Objective: The aim of this study was to improve the criteria used in the medicolegal evaluations of patients with thermal burns and to make recommendations on the subject, based on the Burn Center Referral Criteria of the American Burn Association.
Methods: The patients acutely affected by thermal burns and admitted to Dokuz Eylul University Hospital, Ataturk Training and Research Hospital and Dr. Behcet Uz Child Disease and Pediatric Surgery Training and Research Hospital in one year period were investigated in terms of age, gender, burn type, burn depth, affected body area, referral status to burn center and medicolegal evaluation results.
Results: It was observed that 314 (53.4%) of 588 patients were male, and the mean age was 20.68 ± 21.30 years. According to the burn types, 485 (82.5%) patients burned by contact with hot liquids, 74 (12.6%) patients burned by contact with flame, and 29 (4.9%) patients burned by contact with hot solid objects. The rate of burning with hot liquids was found to be higher in female patients compared to male patients. The mean percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) burned was 6.06 ± 6.40%.
Conclusion: It was concluded that it would be more appropriate for burns of special areas to increase the severity of the clinical condition and to include different age groups such as the 0-5 age group, 6-15 age group and age group over 65 years instead of the 5-year age limit in medicolegal evaluations.
La Unión Europea ante el derecho de asilo: a propósito del asunto Comisión/Hungría (acogida de solicitantes de protección internacional) (C-808/18)
Authors: Ferrer Lloret Jaume
Published: April 2021

La Sentencia dictada por la Gran Sala el 17 de diciembre de 2020 en Comisión/Hungría, pone en evidencia las graves carencias que afectan a la aplicación del derecho de asilo reconocido en el art. 18 de la Carta de Derechos Fundamentales (CDFUE). El Tribunal de Justicia (TJ) llega a la conclusión de que las autoridades húngaras han vulnerado de forma flagrante y durante varios años, la normativa de la UE que regula las garantías y procedimientos que deben cumplir los Estados miembros para permitir que se presente una solicitud de protección internacional; para internar a los solicitantes de protección internacional; para expulsar a un nacional de un tercer país; y para permitir a los solicitantes de protección internacional que presenten un recurso con efecto suspensivo contra la decisión denegatoria de su solicitud. Aunque esta jurisprudencia del TJ merezca una valoración positiva, al mismo tiempo se debe insistir en que no garantiza la efectiva aplicación del derecho de asilo en favor de los miles de nacionales de terceros países, a los que las autoridades húngaras han impedido ejercer ese derecho en el período comprendido entre 2015 y 2020. Cabe demandar que, en situaciones como esta, en la que está en juego la efectiva aplicación en beneficio de miles de personas de un derecho reconocido en la CDFUE, la Comisión Europea sea más diligente y resolutiva a la hora de iniciar un procedimiento por incumplimiento de conformidad con el art. 258 TFUE; y más en concreto, solicite al TJ la aplicación de medidas provisionales, con el apercibimiento de que en caso de no ser cumplidas el Estado infractor será sancionado con una multa coercitiva.
Rasgos tempranos del principio de esencialidad: ¿Una lección europea (por cierto, contraintuitiva) desde Karlsruhe?
Authors: Vosa Giuliano
Published: April 2021

Al depositarse el polvo del asunto PSPP, el anclaje constitucional de la primacía que se atribuye al Derecho de la Unión revela toda su fragilidad, lo que amenaza con perturbar el delicado equilibrio de la integración europea. Tras recorrer la trayectoria constitucional de la Unión, este estudio profundiza en la jurisprudencia del Tribunal Constitucional Federal alemán (BVerfG) para desvelar rasgos tempranos de un principio —el principio de esencialidad— que, considerándose como un principio general de derecho de la Unión, manifiesta su potencial en la promoción de la igualdad entre Estados y pueblos de Europa, tal como rezan los arts. 4(2) y 9 TEU. Este principio, arraigado en la teoría de la esencialidad forjada por el BVerfG, y vinculado a una precisa concepción de la dignidad humana —entendida como autodeterminación de personas iguales y libres— implica que toda norma basada en un mandato cuya interpretación es demasiado extensa en relación a la sensibilidad política de los efectos causados no puede reclamar obligatoriedad hasta que no encuentre apoyo en una base jurídica adecuadamente renovada mediante una explicita toma de responsabilidad por parte de las fuerzas políticas.
Crónica de una muerte anunciada? The ECJ judgment Lactalis and what’s left of the «made in» question in the European Union
Authors: Rubino Vito
Published: April 2021

El Reglamento n.º 1169/2011 (UE) relativo a la información a los consumidores sobre los alimentos preveía numerosas excepciones a la regla general de la «irrelevancia» tendencial de la indicación del origen del producto en el etiquetado, así como que los Estados miembros podían imponer la obligación de añadir información adicional sobre el origen de determinadas categorías de productos con determinadas cualidades. Sobre esta base, numerosos Estados miembros han ido introduciendo disposiciones a tal efecto en los últimos años, estimulando la campaña a favor o en contra del llamado «Hecho en» (Made in). El Tribunal de Justicia dictaminó que: – La regla genera lo establecido en el art. 26.2, aunque expresada de forma sucinta, constituye una forma de preferencia absoluta en la materia. – El art. 39, que autoriza a los Estados miembros a añadir determinada información obligatoria adicional a la impuesta por el Reglamento, se limita únicamente a los productos cuyas cualidades dependen del origen geográfico y solo si dicha información puede considerarse necesaria para los consumidores. – El riesgo de deterioro de la leche debido al transporte no entra en las condiciones previstas en el art. 39. Esta decisión supone una contrariedad para los defensores de la transparencia sobre el origen, dado que, en su sentencia, el Tribunal de Justicia interpreta el reglamento en cuestión de la manera más acorde posible con la libre circulación de mercancías. Teniendo en cuenta lo dicho, nuestro comentario trata de resaltar las repercusiones a corto plazo de la sentencia y plantea la hipótesis de cómo, a largo plazo, la polémica sobre el Made in podría continuar.
Crónica de jurisprudencia del Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos, septiembre-diciembre 2020
Authors: Cuenca Curbelo Salvador
Published: April 2021

La presente crónica de jurisprudencia tiene el objeto de presentar algunas de las resoluciones más relevantes dictadas por el Tribunal Europeo de Derechos Humanos durante el período comprendido entre los meses de septiembre y diciembre de 2020.
La inconstitucional habilitación a los partidos políticos para recabar datos sobre opiniones políticas: Comentario a la STC 76/2019, de 22 de mayo
Authors: Jove Villares Daniel
Published: April 2021

El día 22 de mayo de 2019, el pleno del Tribunal Constitucional declaró la inconstitucionalidad del apdo. 1 del art. 58 bis. Este precepto, incorporado a la Ley Orgánica 5/1985, de 19 de junio, del Régimen Electoral General, por la Ley Orgánica 3/2018, de 5 de diciembre, de Protección de Datos Personales y Garantía de los Derechos Digitales, fue recurrido ante el Alto Tribunal español por el Defensor del Pueblo. La inconstitucionalidad del precepto se fundamenta en una triple vulneración del derecho a la protección de datos en conexión con el art. 53.1 de la Constitución: la ausencia de una finalidad definida que justifique la injerencia en el derecho, la inexistencia de límites claros y la no regulación de un adecuado marco de garantías.
Tax Revenue Diversification in Indonesia
Authors: Martiyus Jefrio
Published: April 2021

State finances are a vital issue that is still being debated among scholars. This paper focuses on revenue diversification issues affecting the variables in this study, discussed by Deborah A Carrol in the USA. Some researchers believe that revenue diversification is an alternative path to stabilize state accounts in a crisis. Furthermore, diversification can also capture policy reactions to political and economic constraints. Using panel data analysis, it was found that four significant variables affected the tax revenue diversification, including average monthly salaries, per capita expenditure, homeownership, and the Gini Ratio. This study uncovered that Indonesia's tax revenue sources were not diverse, with more than 47 percent coming from income taxes. In theory, this condition should get more attention from the government because the more diverse the revenue, the more stable the government account becomes.
Increased thyroglobulin and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand expression is a risk factor of bone metastasis on patients with thyroid cancer
Authors: Nugraha Gede Ketut Alit Satria , Astawa Putu , Karna Made Bramantya , Wiratnaya I. Gede Eka , Sumadi I. Wayan Juli
Published: April 2021

Background: Metastatic bone disease (MBD) of thyroid cancer poses increased risk of morbidity and mortality and significant decrease of quality of life of the patient, with 10 years survival rate of 40-70%. This study aims to find correlation between increased expression of thyroglobulin and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL) on thyroid cancer biopsy and increased risk of bony metastasis.Methods: This study use case control design to analyze the histopathologic preparation taken from biopsy of the patients with thyroid cancer from 2015 until 2020. The histopathology preparation was cut with 4 µm thickness, then analyzed through immunohistochemistry assay using thyroglobulin antibody cocktail and anti-RANKL polyclonal antibody by a pathologic anatomy consultant. Analysis and correlation between the high thyroglobulin and RANKL expression with the incidence of bony metastasis using chi-squared test and odd ratio calculation.Results: There is a significant difference of thyroglobulin and RANKL expression between the group with metastasis and without metastasis (p=0.05 and p=0.02, respectively). ROC curve analysis of thyroglobulin and RANKL expression resulted in the optimal cutoff value of both parameters. Thyroglobulin cutoff value was 1.70 and RANKL cutoff value was 1.95. The analysis showed significant correlation between high expression of thyroglobulin with the incidence of bony metastasis (p=0.044). Similar result was also found in the high expression of RANKL (p=0.02).Conclusions: Increased thyroglobulin and RANKL expression are a risk factor of bone metastasis on patients with thyroid cancer.
Microbiological profile of COVID-19 patients admitted in a tertiary care hospital Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Rani Anju , Gupta Varuna , Gandhi Kandhakumari , Dhanvijay Ashok Kumar
Published: April 2021

Background: The pandemic due to severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has drawn worldwide worst effect with diagnostic challenge. Every investigation has its own importance for diagnosis, care, treatment and for management of corona virus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients. Here this prospective study aimed to investigate the microbiological profile, prevalence of co-infection, and antibiotic susceptibility pattern of patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2.Methods: A total of 336 samples were processed in COVID laboratory, Department of Microbiology. An array of serological investigations was done by rapid card screening test. C-Reactive protein (CRP) was analyzed by nephelometer. Blood culture was done by automated system and urine culture on Cystine-Lactose-Electrolyte-Deficient (CLED) Agar. Antibiotic susceptibility tests were done by Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method.Results: Out of 336 samples tested 76%were male and 24%were female. All samples tested were negative for HIV, HBsAg, HCV, syphilis, malarial parasite. CRP and Typhi -dot with IgM and IgG antibody were positive in 89.28% and 11.42% respectively. About 27% of COVID-19 patients showed bacterial and fungal co-infections. The most prevalent organisms were MR-CoNS (26%), K. pneumoniae (19%) and less prevalent were P. aeruginosa (6%) and A. baumannii (4%).  C. albicans (11%) was the only isolated fungi. All gram positive isolates were 100% sensitive to Linezolid and vancomycin, among gram negative isolates, 100% were sensitive to colistin and polymyxin B.Conclusions: Microbiological investigation for presence of other co-infecting agents among patients with COVID-19 infection should be considered, and prompt treatment should be carried out accordingly.
Effect of monosodium glutamate on liver of adult albino rats: a light microscopic study
Authors: Shangloo Prenika , Syed Midhat , Gupta Sangeeta
Published: April 2021

Background: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) or Aji-no-moto is the common flavouring agent which is inadvertently used in all the packed and ready to use food items. Its use has grabbed the attention with reporting of Chinese restaurant syndrome and many more side effects. This flavouring agent effects almost all the organs of the human body but the statistics regarding its ill effects are very limited, thus no objections are being raised for its use in eatables. In current study we planned to analyse the pathological effects of MSG on the liver of adult albino rats.Methods: The study was conducted on 18 inbred adult albino rats of either sex. The rats of control group (A) received only standard diet with distilled water, low dose test group (B) rats received 0.5 mg/kg of MSG dissolved in distilled water and high dose test group (C) rats received 1.5 mg/kg of MSG dissolved in distilled water per orally for 28 days. After the experimental period, the rats were sacrificed to dissect out the liver tissue which was later subjected to histological processing and tissue sectioning.Results: The liver tissue sections of the control group (A) revealed normal hepatic architecture with central veins located in the centre of the hepatic lobule and portal areas containing portal triad formed by portal venule, hepatic arteriole and bile ductile. On the other hand, the liver sections of low dose group (B) exhibited pathological changes in the form of dilated and congested central vein with sinusoidal dilatation. In high dose group (C), more marked pathological changes seen in group B along with dilatation of the portal vein was also seen.Conclusions: MSG is most widely used food additive whose safe limits for use need to be scrutinized. The current study was planned to access the minimal low dose limit of MSG for use. The observations of the afore mentioned study revealed that even small dose of MSG of 0.5 mg/kg is capable of producing pathological effects in liver which is the main site of metabolism of xenobiotics
Socio-demographic profile and mode of attempt of suicide among suicide attempters in Kashmir: a hospital-based study
Authors: Bhagat Shaveta , Yasmeen Irm , Dar Mohammad Maqbool , Ahmed Ibrar
Published: April 2021

Background: Suicide is an important and serious public health problem. It is one of the major emergencies in psychiatry. This study was carried out to assess the socio-demographic profile and mode of attempt of suicide among suicidal attempters attending emergency.Methods: This study was a cross sectional, observational study conducted at Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences-Kashmir, an associated hospital of Government Medical College Srinagar, among the suicide patients attending the outpatient service and inpatient services fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria over a period of one and a half year. Each patient was informed about the purpose of interview; his/her consent was obtained in a simple and easily understandable unambiguous language.Results: A total of 221 cases who had been admitted following unsuccessful suicide attempts to the emergency and psychiatry department were taken up for the study. Out of which 161 (72.9%) were females and 60 (27.1%) were males, the mean age was 24.61±8.9 years. Lower middle and upper lower classes occupied an equal percentage of 34.4% of the suicide attempters, while 24% belonged to upper middle class and only 5.9% belonged to lower class .The least no. of cases (1.4%) were from the upper classes. The most common mode adopted was poisoning whereas the least common mode was self- immolation. Poisoning and self-mutilation were proportionally high in females as compared to males with a significant p value.Conclusions: There should be a robust system in place which takes care of future management and follow up of this group of population.
Umbilical endometriosis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Fuentes Huber Díaz , Quijano Carlos De Jesús Cocom , Negrete Christian Rodríguez
Published: April 2021

Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterus. It affects 7-10% of women of reproductive age. Most commonly, the condition affects pelvic organs, however, 12% are encountered at extragenital sites, such as lungs, diaphragm, or umbilicus. Authors present the case of a 32 year old patient presenting with secondary umbilical endometriosis, after a recent surgical procedure. Manifesting umbilical mass, pain and catamenial bleeding from the umbilicus.
Thyroid status and treatment responses of hypothyroid infertile women: a study in a tertiary care hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Aktaruzzaman A. H. M. , Ahmmed Afsar , Yasmin Sabina , Dewan M. Shafiqul Islam
Published: April 2021

Background: Recently, the prevalence of hypothyroidism in the reproductive age group is found up to 4%. In many studies it had been claimed that, thyroid status is directly involved in women reproductive system. Hypothyroidism can be easily detected by assessing serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. The aim of this study was to dig out the prevalence of hypothyroidism in infertile women and to assess their responses in treatment procedures.Methods: This observational study was conducted National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from January 2019 to December 2019 in total 236 women of Endocrinology Department treatment. Patients were followed up for six months even if pregnancy was attained.Results: In total 22% (n=52) patients were hypothyroid. Among them 35 (15%) were subclinical hypothyroid and 17 (7%) were frank hypothyroid. Besides these, 73% (n=172) were euthyroid and the rest 5% (n=12) were hyperthyroid. On the other hand, in analysing the outcome (treatment responses) among the hypothyroid subjects we observed regular menstruation, normal ovulation, clinical pregnancy and chemical pregnancy were achieved by 92.31% (n=48), 88.46% (n=46), 50% (n=26) and 69.23% (n=36) subjects respectively.Conclusions: According to the study, the careful diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism can ensure benefit a lot rather than going for unnecessary hormone assays and costly invasive procedures in for women of infertility.
Impact on fetal outcome following burns in pregnancy
Authors: Mehta Harsh Rajeev , Wasadikar Pravinkumar P.
Published: April 2021

Background: The incidence of female burn patients of reproductive age varies from 0.6%-15% in different series with highest incidence reported from India.Foetus is at high risk due to burns injury, which is often associated with a high rate of fetal mortality.Methods: All cases of burns injury encountered during pregnancy admitted at our tertiary care hospital were included in this study over a span of two years from 2017 to 2019. A total of 20 cases were included in the study. Patients with burns injury from 5 to 100% body surface area were included in this study.Results: Fetal deaths occurred in 11 out of the total 20 cases amounting to 55% overall fetal mortality.Conclusions: Burns during pregnancy requires adequate resuscitation especially in initial stages. There is 100% fetal death outcome for burns greater than 50% body surface area.