bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-omics Uncover Neonatal Cecal Cell Development Potentials
Authors: Chen Liang , Meng Qingshi , Li Shen , Jiang Yue , Zhang Cong , Han Hui , Tang Shanlong , Zhong Ruqing , Tang Xiangfang , Zhang Sheng , Feng Xiaohui , Zhou Yexun , Zhao Yong , Zhang Hongfu
Published: December 2021

BackgroundAlthough, the cecum plays vital roles in absorption of water, electrolytes, and other small molecules, and harbors trillions of commensal bacteria to shape large intestine immune functions, it is unknown the cecum development potentials at single cell level during the very crucial neonatal developmental period.ResultsUsing singe cell RNA-seq and proteomics, we have characterized six major types of cecal epithelial cells: undifferentiated cells; immune cells (Ims); cecumocytes (CCs); goblet, Paneth like cells (PLCs), and enteroendocrine cells (EECs) with specific marker genes. CCs mature with a gradual decrease in number; however, Ims develop with a continuing increase in number. Meanwhile secretory cells (goblet, PLCs, EECs) reduce in number during the neonatal developmental period. The cells exhibit specific development and maturation trends controlled by transcriptional factors, ligand-receptor pairs, and other factors. As piglets grow, cecal content and mucosal microbial diversity increases dramatically with population of beneficial microbiota, such as lactobacillus, increasing significantly. Moreover, cecal mucosal-associated and cecal content microbiota are positively correlated and both show significant correlation with different types of cecal epithelial cells and plasma metabolites. ConclusionsThis is the first presentation of neonatal cecal cell development and maturation naturally at single cell level with transcript, protein, microbiota and metabolism perspectives. Furthermore, this study provides an important tool for the determination of novel interventions in cecal drug delivery and metabolism studies.
miR-221-3p Promotes Pancreatic Cancer Progression via Targeting P53 and PTEN
Authors: Wu Jian-Jun , Shang Zhong-Hua , Guo Min , Yang Zhen-Hua , Ren Fang-Gang , Bian Si-Cheng
Published: December 2021

Background: To assess the regulatory role of microRNA-221-3p (miR-221-3p) as a modulator of pancreatic cancer (PC) cell apoptosis, invasion, migration, and proliferation through its ability to regulate P53 and PTEN expression.Methods: PCPATU8988 cells were used as a model in which high-level or low-level models of miR-221-3p expression were established, with qPCR being used to confirm transfection efficiency. CCK-8 assays were employed to evaluate the proliferation of these cells, with migration and invasion being assessed through appropriate in vitro assays. Western blotting was used to assess PTEN and P53 protein levels in these experimental cells. Flow cytometry was additionally used to assess the impact of experimental manipulations on cellular apoptosis.Results: MiR-221-3p overexpression enhanced the migratory, proliferative, and invasive activity of PCPATU8988 cells (P<0.01) and suppressed their apoptotic death (P<0.05), while miR-221-3p inhibition had the opposite impact. No differences in P53 and PTEN protein levels were detected when comparing the NC miR-221-3p mimic or inhibitor groups (P>0.05), whereas miR-221-3p mimic transfection significantly reduced the levels of these proteins (P<0.05).Conclusion: This analysis showed that miR-221-3p can drive PC cell proliferative, migratory, and invasive activity while suppressing the apoptotic death of these cells. Functionally, this miRNA can suppress P53 and PTEN protein expression. Overall, this suggests that miR-221-3p can regulate PC development by controlling the expression of these key oncogenic proteins.
Empirical Models to Formulate the Nonlinear Response of Rocking Shallow Foundations
Authors: Hamidpour Sara , Shakib Hamzeh , Paolucci Roberto , Correia António , Soltani Masoud
Published: December 2021

This paper aims to introduce a simplified moment-rotation backbone model for exploring the nonlinear behavior of shallow foundations subjected to rocking. The model is developed based on parametric numerical investigations of rectangular footings on dense dry sand, taking advantage of a nonlinear macro-element model verified based on a set of experimental results. Empirical expressions are proposed for rocking stiffness degradation due to gravity loads and foundation rotation as a function of the factor of safety against vertical loads and aspect ratio of foundations. Similar to previous researches, the uplift reference rotation was introduced to explore a new closedform expression appropriate for normalizing the foundation response in a non-dimensional form. The proposed approach for stiffness degradation and nonlinear backbone model of rocking foundations aims to be simple, to minimize the dependence on the variable parameters, and to provide physically sound selections for engineering applications.
Cell Surface SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Modulates Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Authors: Yewdell Jonathan , Lopez-Munoz Alberto , Kosik Ivan , Holly Jaroslav
Published: December 2021

SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein (N) induces strong antibody and T cell responses. Although considered to be localized in the cytosol, we readily detect N on the surface of live cells. N released by SARS-CoV-2 infected cells or N-expressing transfected cells binds to neighboring cells by electrostatic high-affinity binding to heparan sulfate and heparin, but not other sulfated glycosaminoglycans. N binds with high affinity to 11 human chemokines, including CXCL12β, whose chemotaxis of leukocytes is inhibited by N from SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1, and MERS CoV. Anti-N Abs bound to the surface of N expressing cells activate Fc receptor-expressing cells. Our findings indicate that cell surface N manipulates innate immunity by sequestering chemokines and can be targeted by Fc expressing innate immune cells. This, in combination with its conserved antigenicity among human CoVs, advances its candidacy for vaccines that induce cross-reactive B and T cell immunity to SARS-CoV-2 variants and other human CoVs, including novel zoonotic strains.
WITHDRAWN: Analyzing the institutional and regulatory framework for operationalizing the blue economy in Bangladesh: Lessons from Australia
Authors: Rahman Md. Mizanur
Published: December 2021

This study's overarching objective was to assess the suitability and applicability of the existing legal and institutional framework for managing the coastal and marine resources in Bangladesh. Besides, the legal and institutional arrangement of Australia was examined to adopt the best practices for Bangladesh. The glimpse of the potential coastal and marine resources of Bangladesh was assessed to have an idea of the untapped resources' dimensions. Together with, the fundamental challenges faced by the artisanal and small-scale fishers in Bangladesh were critically scrutinized. The empirical data collection followed a multi-approach like mini-symposium, consultation workshops, focus group discussions, case studies, visiting, personal, and key informant interviews. The study revealed that the vast provisioning, regulating, and cultural ecosystem services of the Bay of Bengal, including its coast and mangrove, is mostly unexplored. The regulatory framework in Bangladesh is characterized by jurisdictional overlapping followed by the conflict of interests among the public institutes, which originated from the aged and fragmented laws and ambiguous business allocation; consequently, the artisanal and small-scale fishers suffer a lot. On the flip side, despite some limitations, Australia established sectoral governance enacting strong legislative measures. The local government and community’s right in resource management locally has been institutionalized in Australia, which remains fuzzy in Bangladesh. Taking lessons from Australia, Bangladesh can enact new sectoral laws followed by business reallocation for the line ministries. The study will help policymakers identify the bottlenecks rooted in Bangladesh’s existing regulatory and institutional framework.
A Novel Similarity Measure of Link Prediction in Multi-Layer Social Networks Based on Reliable Paths
Authors: Rezaeipanah Amin
Published: December 2021

Online social networks are an integral element of modern societies and significantly influence the formation and consolidation of social relationships. In fact, these networks are multi-layered so that there may be multiple links between a user’ on different social networks. In this paper, the link prediction problem for the same user in a two-layer social network is examined, where we consider Twitter and Foursquare networks. Here, information related to the two-layer communication is used to predict links in the Foursquare network. Link prediction aims to discover spurious links or predict the emergence of future links from the current network structure. There are many algorithms for link prediction in unweighted networks, however only a few have been developed for weighted networks. Based on the extraction of topological features from the network structure and the use of reliable paths between users, we developed a novel similarity measure for link prediction. Reliable paths have been proposed to develop unweight local similarity measures to weighted measures. Using these measures, both the existence of links and their weight can be predicted. Empirical analysis shows that the proposed similarity measure achieves superior performance to existing approaches and can more accurately predict future relationships. In addition, the proposed method has better results compared to single-layer networks. Experiments show that the proposed similarity measure has an advantage precision of 1.8% over the Katz and FriendLink measures.
Evaluation of Rockfall Hazard Based On UAV Technology And 3D Rockfall Simulations
Authors: Utlu Mustafa , ÖZTÜRK Muhammed Zeynel , Şimşek Mesut
Published: December 2021

In this study, the rockfall hazard in Hacıabdullah village located in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey was assessed with three-dimensional (3D) rockfall analyses based on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology using RAMMS (Rockfall software). With several rockfall disasters experienced in the village, the final event occurred in 2008, and several houses were evacuated due to rockfall risk after this event. A total of 17 hanging blocks with fall potential were identified and block dimension measurements were performed during field studies. In order to assess the rockfall hazard in the study area, digital surface model (DSM) data were obtained using high-resolution images obtained by UAV. According to dimensional values, the geometric and volumetric features of each rock were assessed close to reality with the RAMMS 3D rockfall modeling program. As a result of 3-D rockfall modelling, the maximum kinetic energy, maximum velocity, and maximum jump height of the falling blocks are reached to 3476 kJ, 23.1 m/s, and 14.57 m, respectively. The shape and volume of the blocks, as well as the slope features, rocks display differences in their runout distances after falls. A rock block with equant geometry has a runout distance of 53.1-126.9 m, whereas a rock block with flat or long geometry has a runout distance of 34-122.9 m. Rocks that do not move very far from the source area are; in other words, where the free-fall process is dominant, may significantly damage the roads. However, rolling blocks, in other words, blocks which can travel long distances from the source area, have a potential to cause great damage at the settlement areas, roads and trees. According to the hazard map, R6, R12, R13, R14, R15, R16, and R17 blocks involve high and moderate levels of risk for settlement units. R1, R4, R7, R8, R9, and R10 blocks show that the majority of them involve low risk, while a small portion is a moderate risk.
The Effects of Family-Centered Empowerment Model on Depression, Anxiety, and Stress of the Family Caregivers of Patients with COVID-19: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nia Mohammad Namazi , Mohajer Samira , Bagheri Nasser , Sarboozi-hoseinabadi Tahere
Published: December 2021

Background: Taking care of patients with Covid-19 is regarded as a challenging task for family caregivers. A family-centered empowerment model (FCEM) should help them achieve greater psychological strength in the care process.Methods: Seventy caregivers were randomized to FCEM (n= 35) or control (n= 35). The four-stage of FCEM in four online sessions through WhatsApp was provided to the intervention group from the patient's discharge until 2 weeks later. The demographic information questionnaire and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 were employed both before and five days after the FCEM sessions to gather the necessary data.Results: Caregivers included 55.8% women and 44.2% men, with a mean age of 42.5 years. The results demonstrated a substantial difference in the average score of stress (p=0.023), anxiety (p=0.003), and depression (p=0.012).Conclusions: The combination of a face-to-face orientation session and online methods of FCEM is likely to lower stress, anxiety, and depression among caregivers. It can be contributed to the practicability, simplicity, and effectiveness of the intervention.Clinical Trial Registration code: This study (IRCT20180429039463N2) was registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial on 10/04/2020
The Inhibitory Impact of Schisandrin Against LPS-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Li Weifeng , Huang Qiuxia , Yu Jinjin , Yu Jiabao , Yang Yajie , Liu Yang , Song Huixin , Cui Langjun , Niu Xiaofeng
Published: December 2021

Schisandrin (Sch) is a main bioactive component of Schisandra sphenanthera Rehd.et Wils. It has been reported that Sch could regulate inflammatory disease. This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects effect of Sch on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced macrophages activation and acute kidney injury mice. Male Kunming mice were intraperitoneally injected with LPS (15 mg/kg) after administration of Sch (12.5, 25, 50 mg/kg) seven days for developing acute kidney injury vivo model. RAW264.7 macrophages were pretreatment Sch (10, 20, 40 µM) and administrated LPS (1 µg/ml) to create an in vitro injury model. ELISA results found that Sch administration reduced the production of inflammatory factors induced by LPS in kidney tissues and RAW264.7 macrophages. It has been observed that Sch alleviated oxidative stress by reducing the levels of reactive oxygen species, myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde, and increasing the activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. Hematoxylin-eosin staining data suggested that Sch administration significantly reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and the kidney tissue damage induced by LPS. The blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels were also reduced by Sch treatment. In addition, Western blot and immunohistochemical analysis showed that Sch up-regulated the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1, and decreased the expression of p-p38, p-JNK, p-ERK1/2, p-IκBα, p-NF-κBp65 and TLR4. The current research showed that Sch reduced LPS-induced acute kidney injury by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress, and provided insights into potential ways to treat AKI.
Waterborne and Airborne Microfibers Shed from Non-Woven Materials in Water and Air Environments
Authors: Kwon Soojin , Zambrano Marielis C. , Venditti Richard A. , Frazier Ryen , Zambrano Franklin , Gonzalez Ronalds W. , Pawlak Joel Justin
Published: December 2021

Nonwoven products are widely used in various fields, including many disposable products, such as wipes, diapers, and masks. However, microfibers shed from these products in the aquatic and air environment have not been fully described. In the present study, several commercial single-use nonwoven products and a series of meltblown nonwoven materials produced in a pilot plant were investigated regarding their microfiber generation during their use in aquatic and air environments. Microfibers shed in water were studied using a Launder Ometer equipment (1- 65 mg of microfibers per gram material), and microfibers shed in air were evaluated using a dusting testing machine that shakes a piece of the nonwoven back and forth (~0 to 6000 microfibers (4 mg of microfibers) per gram material). The raw materials and bonding technologies applied to the commercial nonwovens affected the microfiber generation both in water and air conditions. Meltblown nonwoven fabrics generated fewer microfibers compared to the other commercial nonwovens studied here, and the manufacturing factors, such as DCD (Die to collector distance) and air flow rate, affected the tendency of microfiber generation. Microfibers of nonwovens shed in water and air environment were compared to selected textile materials and paper tissue materials. The results herein suggest that it is possible to control the tendency of microfiber shedding through the choice of operating parameters during nonwoven manufacturing processes.
The clinical fabrication of polyolefin mouthguards formed over fixed orthodontic appliances
Authors: Westerman Bill , Kerr Michael , Tod Marcus
Published: December 2021

Using a new polyolefin material without impressions and models, fifty-two mouthguards were fabricated at chairside by a dental professional. Patient acceptance, operator assessment, mouthguard retention and fabrication time were assessed. The study demonstrated the practicality of custom-made mouthguard fabrication over fixed orthodontic appliances and recommends the procedure as a useful adjunct to orthodontic practice.
Türkçe Eğitimi Doktora Tezlerine Bütünsel Bir Yaklaşım (1995-2020)
Authors: KARAGÖZ Beytullah , ŞEREF İzzet
Published: December 2021

Bu çalışmada Türkiye’de 1995-2020 yılları arasında savunulan Türkçe Eğitimi doktora
tezlerinin araştırma profilinin ortaya konması amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma, Yükseköğretim
Kurulu Tez Merkezi verilerine dayalı olarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın kapsamını
Türkçe Eğitimi alanında tamamlanan toplam 248 doktora tezi oluşturmaktadır. Doktora
tezleri yıllık tez üretimi, danışman unvanı, konu alanı, araştırma yöntem ve deseni, tez-yayın oranı ölçütleri çerçevesinde ele alınmıştır. Çalışmanın verileri, içerik analizi tekniği ile
çözümlenmiştir. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre, alanda en çok tez 2015 yılında üretilmiştir.
Doktora çalışmaları, ağırlıklı olarak Prof. Dr. unvanlı akademisyenlerin danışmanlığında
gerçekleştirilmiştir. Tezlerde desen olarak en çok karma araştırma desenleri tercih edilmiştir.
Türkçe Eğitimi doktora tezlerinde, 2010 yılından sonra Yabancılara Türkçe Öğretimi
konusunun yoğun olarak araştırıldığı tespit edilmiştir. Doktora tezlerinin yarısından
fazlasının (%53,22) yayına dönüştüğü belirlenmiştir.
Çağdaş Siyaset Felsefesine Giriş
Authors: ÖZTÜRK Alper
Published: December 2021

Will Kymlicka, Çağdaş Siyaset Felsefesine Giriş adlı eserinde siyasi kavramların

tartışıldığı geleneksel kategorilerin (sağ ve sol) darlığı ve yetersizliği nedeniyle bugün

siyaset felsefesi alanında yapılan önemli çalışmaları anlamanın mümkün olmadığını öne

sürer. Sözü geçen eserinde Kymlicka, her siyasi kuramın farklı bir nihai değere sahip

olduğunu göz önünde bulundurarak siyaset felsefesini ahlaki bir zeminde tartışır. Düşünür

bu eserinde, sağ özgürlük ve sol eşitlik gibi zıt değerlerin yanı sıra sözleşmeye dayanan

uzlaşma, ortak yarar, fayda, haklar, kimlik ya da androjini gibi farklı nihai değerlere sahip

siyaset kuramlarını bir araya getirerek adaletin ulaşılmaz bir hedef olmaktan çıkarılmasına

yönelik kapsamlı bir çalışma sunar.
Experimental analysis of cutting force during machining difficult to cut materials under dry, mineral oil, and TiO2 nano-lubricant
Authors: Okokpujie I. P. , Tartibu L. K.
Published: December 2021

Difficult-to-machine materials, e.g., Titanium alloys, are highly applicable in diverse industries that yield strength and wear resistance. However, they prove difficult to machine due to high vibration, leading to high cutting forces during the machining process. This vibration occurs from chip discontinuity and thereby leads to high friction between the cutting tool and workpiece. In order to minimize these challenges, lubricants are employed in machining operations to reduce frictional and other unnecessary cutting forces and improve surface finish. This research focuses on studying the nano-lubricant effects in reducing cutting forces in the machining of TI-6AL-4V-ELI alloy. Also, carry out a comparative study of dry, mineral oil, and TiO2 nano-lubricant during face-milling machining for optimal performance. Additionally, the study develops a predictive mathematical model for cutting force using a Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. A two-step approach was employed to develop the nano-lubricant before the machining process. The dynamometer is used to collect the cutting force data at the end of each sample. The Results show that the lubrication conditions play a significant role in the reduction of cutting forces. The mineral oil-based-TiO2 nano-lubricant reduces the cutting force by 19 % compared with the mineral oil during the machining of TI-6AL-4V-ELI alloy. Furthermore, the optimal parameters to reduce cutting forces during face milling of TI-6AL-4V-ELI alloy are cutting speed at 3000 rpm, 200 mm/min feed rate, 0.3 mm depth of cut to obtain the minimum cutting force 30 (N). This study concludes that the application of TiO2 nanoparticles in mineral oil significantly improves the thermal and mechanical properties, which leads to a reduction of cutting force.
Analysis of retinal expression of genes involved in the regulation of angiogenesis and endothelial barrier function following exposure of the retina to 577 nm wavelength laser light in continuous mode
Authors: Gavrilova Natalia A. , Gurevich Konstantin G. , Komova Olga Yu. , Zinoveva Alexandra V.
Published: December 2021

Objective. The aim of the study was to investigate the retinal expression of genes involved in the regulation of angiogenesis and endothelial barrier function after exposure of the retina to 577 nm laser light in a continuous mode in experimental conditions after intravitreal injection of VEGF165 (Vascular endothelial growth factor). Materials and methods. The study was performed on 4-5 week old male C57BL / 6J mice. 4 groups, 5 mice in each, were formed, one animal eye was experimental and the second remained intact. The animals of the first group received intravitreal injection of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS); animals in the second, third and fourth groups received intravitreal injection of 50 ng/ml of recombinant VEGF165; in the third and fourth groups, one day after the VEGF165 intravitreal administration, laser irradiation with a wavelength of 577 nm was performed on the retina in micropulse and continuous modes, respectively. Tissue samples from animals of the first and second groups were taken 2 days after PBS and VEGF165 administration, and in animals from the third and fourth groups one day after laser exposure to the retina. Results. Retinal expression of genes involved in the regulation of angiogenesis and endothelial barrier function as a result of retinal exposure to 577 nm laser radiation in continuous mode following intravitreal injection of VEGF165 was studied. Genes with significant changes in expression levels were identified (genes that regulate the processes of angiogenesis). Conclusion. Understanding the mechanisms of modulation of retinal gene expression may help to identify the key regulatory factors providing therapeutic effects of laser radiation in continuous and micropulsed modes and provide the basis for future therapeutic tactics for retinal diseases.
LUGARES DE MEMÓRIA E RESIGNIFICAÇÃO CULTURAL NA TERRA INDÍGENA TOLDO PINHAL, BRASIL
Authors: Lino Jaisson Teixeira , Alberti Giaretta Jesssica
Published: December 2021

The present article has as its objective to show some fundamental cultural aspects to achievement of demarcation of Indigenous Land Toldo Pinhal, located in the city of Seara, in the west of Santa Catarina State, south of Brazil, it reflects here the cultural identities elements that were added by the referred indigenous community in the struggle for the affirmation of the basic rights, as the access to the land and the maintenance of critical cultural traits of “being Kaingang”.
"Paraíso de Maomé", terra de escravos
Authors: Oliveira Castelo Branco Bruno
Published: December 2021

Esta investigação analisa a primeira etapa da colonização do Paraguai, considerando a problemática das categorias de trabalho atribuídas aos povos Guarani. Para tanto, utiliza-se como suportes teórico-metodológicos os diálogos entre a História, a Antropologia e os recentes debates sobre a história do Direito, atentando-se nas fontes para o protagonismo dos índios neste processo histórico. Em meados do século XVI existiram legislações de perspectivas generalizantes e localizadas, direcionadas para as populações nativas que se construíram em situações concretas. Neste artigo, foram utilizadas fontes diversificadas, sobretudo as atas do cabildo de Assunção e as principais crônicas, relatos e cartas dos primeiros conquistadores e viajantes que estiveram no Paraguai.
UNIDADE DE PRODUÇÃO AGROECOLÓGICA DO ASSENTAMENTO MODELO – UPAM/JOÃO CÂMARA-RN
Authors: Brasil Deusimar Freire
Published: December 2021

A Unidade de Produção Agroecológica do Assentamento Modelo (UPAM) compõe-se de um conjunto de ações acadêmicas voltadas à consolidação de processos produtivos agroecológicos no assentamento Modelo, desenvolvido pela UFRN no município de João Câmara/RN, envolvendo outras entidades e associações de agricultores familiares. O objetivo é promover o protagonismo dos agricultores num trabalho formativo sobre produção agroecológica, beneficiamento da produção e justa comercialização, possibilitando uma formação humanista, ética, política e cidadã, que fortaleça laços familiares, numa perspectiva sustentável de (con)vivência no espaço rural da caatinga, que fortaleça a reforma agrária como política pública de emancipação humana. A execução da UPAM apoia-se em princípios e métodos baseados em: participação » autonomia » autogestão » autogoverno » emancipação » liberdade, operacionalizados numa prática rizomática deleuziana, com ênfase num trabalho múltiplo, coletivo e cooperativo, valorizador da diversidade e da inter-relação entre os agentes e entre seus saberes. Dos resultados advindos dessas ações destacam-se: cultivos em miscelânea; estratégias de captação da água de chuva; pisciponia: produção de pescado e hortaliças; produção de hortaliças e frutas em canteiro e pomar econômicos; plantas medicinais em canteiros econômicos; tilapicultura em tanque escavado; cultivos hortifrutiforrageiros fertirrigados com efluente de criação de tilápia; fertilização e manejo sanitário agroecológico; avicultura e ovinocultura em contexto agroecológico; adensamento socioeconômico da caatinga; ações voltadas a processos organizativos; beneficiamento e comercialização da produção agroecológica. As ações promoveram o protagonismo dos envolvidos e consolidaram os processos produtivos agroecológicos sustentáveis, ampliando sua autonomia e emancipação social, econômica e política, no desenvolvimento de bom padrão de vida humana em suas comunidades rurais.
ESTRATÉGIAS INTERDISCIPLINARES NO PIBID: EXPERIMENTANDO COM AS PROPRIEDADES DO AR
Authors: Paiva Junior Rubens Ferreira de , Oliveira Hugo Robert Silva de , Silva Anaily Raissa da , Severo Thiago Emmanuel Araújo
Published: December 2021

A educação científica tem tomado como meta aproximar os estudantes de modelos explicativos dos fenômenos naturais a partir de práticas e métodos científicos, assim como da problematização do cotidiano. O trabalho com aspectos conceituais em sala de aula é facilitado ao aproximar as idéias e modelos que os alunos já sabem com a possibilidades de manipulação experimental. Seguindo essa perspectiva, desenvolvemos uma atividade didática com alunos do 6º ano do Ensino Fundamental que tem como foco trabalhar experimentalmente conceitos relacionados às propriedades do ar, de forma que dialogue com suas curiosidade e criatividade. O objetivo da atividade foi desenvolver a compreensão da existência do ar, seus efeitos e propriedades por meio de experimentos simples. A atividade foi desenvolvida em três etapas, cada uma equivalente a um momento. Essas etapas foram subdivididas em 1) introdução; 2) debate/reflexão - discussão com os alunos, em formato de fórum; e um momento de 3) experimentação. As estratégias e recursos que usamos foram atividades informativas, expositivas, debates, experiências sobre existência do ar e suas propriedades. Com o material presente nas exposições, apresentações dialogadas e experimentos, houve condições para que o aluno pudesse pensar sobre alguns aspectos das práticas das ciências, através do diálogo entre teoria e observações de fatos, construção de hipóteses, registro de dados e argumentação. Ao longo da atividade os alunos puderam identificar a composição do ar junto com suas propriedades, diferenciar e relacionar as noções de ar e vento e verificar a importância do oxigênio para a vida na terra. Ao final da nossa intervenção foi solicitado aos alunos que realizassem uma produção textual que sintetizasse a importância do ar e suas propriedades para a manutenção da vida na Terra, como instrumento formativo. Nossa experiência com a prática experimental e argumentativa das ciências no ambiente escolar, principalmente quando aproximada de questões problematizadoras, faz acreditar que esses espaços são estratégicos para o desenvolvimento de práticas socioambientais e de uma visão crítica sobre os processos de manutenção da vida no nosso planeta, já que exerce influência na construção de valores e estimula o exercício da cidadania.
A cultura material como recurso didático no ensino de História
Authors: Da Silva Micheli Gomes , Da Silva Amanda Kelly Acioli , Pinheiro Helena Alves de Souza de Lucena
Published: December 2021

Introdução: Este relato de experiência decorre de nossa atuação junto ao Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID) – Subprojeto História/ Natal. Em 2016, desenvolvemos na Escola Estadual Professor Josino Macedo, um projeto interdisciplinar voltado para os alunos do 6º e 7º Ano do Ensino Fundamental, articulando Arqueologia e História, numa abordagem que buscou privilegiar a História Local e a História Indígena. Objetivos: A proposta era estimular entre os discentes um olhar investigativo, crítico e inquiridor voltado para o espaço local, em geral negligenciado pelos livros didáticos, que tendem a privilegiar os espaços identificados com o poder hegemô- nico. O desafio, nesse caso, era a utilização de recursos didáticos que favorecessem o estudo da História Local, preferencialmente enfocando temas obrigatórios no currículo da área, caso da História e Cultura Indígena. Metodologia: Partindo do pressuposto de que o ensino de História deve ser feito em consonância com método de produção da ciência de referência, para atingir nossos objetivos, optamos por explorar fontes tradicionalmente utilizadas por historiadores em suas pesquisas: vestígios da cultura material de sociedades antigas. Acerca do método de análise, o diálogo com a Arqueologia foi indispensável para que pudéssemos analisar esses vestígios e utilizá-los como recurso didático. Resultados: O resultado da iniciativa foi a realização do I Encontro de Estudos Históricos no espaço escolar, com o tema “O trabalho do arqueó- logo na construção da História”, assim como o planejamento e execução de planos de aula que tinham como principal recurso didático um conjunto de réplicas de materiais líticos e cerâmicos. Discussão: Com essa experiência procuramos contribuir para os debates sobre aprendizagem histórica, colocando em evidência a possibilidade de viabilizarmos a construção do conhecimento numa perspectiva interdisciplinar, por meio do método investigativo, valorizando a História Local. Conclusões: Com essa experiência concluímos que a sala de aula deve ser pensada como um espaço privilegiado para a construção do conhecimento, e que o método de produção do conhecimento histórico pode – e deve – servir de referência para a formulação de propostas inovadoras e criativas de ensino de História.
Universidade Popular do Rio Grande do Norte
Authors: Cascudo Luís da Câmara
Published: December 2021

O texto de Cascudo com “Universidade popular do Rio Grande do Norte”, original e gentilmente cedido por sua neta Daliana Cascudo,  presidente do Ludovicus - Instituto Câmara Cascudo, revela o relatório de uma programação desenvolvida no ano de 1948, do que seria o embrião de uma universidade que se queria popular, com um total de 21 aulas públicas diversificadas como canto gregoriano, doutrinas sociais, psicopatias, e mesmo o combate à malária, ainda a desafiar pesquisadores e órgãos de saúde pública nos dias atuais. Diz ele, finalizando o texto: Aos indiferentes, anedóticos, analgésicos e agressores, dedico um Padre Nosso e uma Ave Maria. A provável incredulidade de alguns certamente deu lugar à construção coletiva de um projeto consolidado em sessenta anos, cujos resultados são comemorados por se associarem intrinsicamente ao desenvolvimento de nosso estado e país.
Tempos e espaços das artes e da cultura na UFRN
Authors: Alves Teodora de Araújo
Published: December 2021

Teodora de Araújo Alves em Tempos e espaços das artes e da cultura na UFRN apresenta os espaços culturais na UFRN abordando ainda a Política de Cultura e o Plano de Cultura da UFRN/Edital Mais Cultura nas Universidades/MEC/MinC no âmbito da instituição.
SARS-CoV-2: Possible Factors Contributing to Serious Consequences of
COVID-19?
Authors: Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah , Mungroo Mohammad R. , Abouleish Mohamed Y. , Khan Naveed A.
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives:

The recently discovered coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 has infected over 170 million people (as of 31th May 2021) since it was elucidated in December
2019. The number of SARS-CoV-2 cases and mortality rates vary from country to country, and unfortunately, the United Kingdom ranks in the top
5 countries with the most deaths as of 31th May 2021.

Methods:

A literature review was conducted during May 2021 to examine if factors such as gut microbiome, ethnic diversity, high cancer rates, obesity and
alcohol consumption may have contributed to the higher number of cases and mortality due to SARS-CoV-2 in the UK.

Results:

The western diet is associated with a less diverse gut microbiome, as well as obesity, and contributes to the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Moreover, people belonging to Black and South Asian ethnic groups in the UK have an increased risk of death due to SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Given the high number of cancer patients in the UK, as well as excess consumption of alcohol, higher mortality rates were observed, most likely
due to people possessing a less diverse gut microbiome and/or weakened immune system.

Conclusion:

Targeting the gut microbiome in developing potential therapeutics against SARS-COV-2 is of value, and further studies are needed to understand
the specific role of the gut microbiome.
The Discrepancy between Gross Features and Chemical Compositions in
Gallbladder Stone: A Descriptive Single Center Study in the United Arab
Emirates
Authors: Cha Byung Hyo , Park Min Jung , Baeg Joo Yeong , Lee Sunpyo , Ahn Young Joon , Al Salami Wafaa Salem Obaid , Idris Osama Mohamed Ibrahim , Hong Duckjin , Kim Byoungkwon , Park Hyo Jin
Published: December 2021

Background and Study Aim:

Gallbladder stone (GBS) is a common gastrointestinal disease that is the primary indication for cholecystectomy. The present study was conducted
to describe the chemical composition of gallstones in a tertiary referral hospital in the United Arab Emirates.

Materials and Methods:

Patients diagnosed with GBS and who underwent cholecystectomy due to symptomatic GBS and cholecystitis in Sheikh Khalifa Specialty Hospital
were enrolled in this study. After cholecystectomy, all stone specimens were classified according to their gross findings into 4 groups, namely
black pigmented stones (BLPS), brown pigmented stones (BRPS), mixed cholesterol stones, and cholesterol stones (CLS). Quantitative analysis
using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was then performed to define the stones’ chemical constituents. They were reclassified into two
groups as CLS (cholesterol ≥ 60%) and pigmented stones (PGS, cholesterol ≤ 59%) based on gallstone composition analysis.

Results:

A total of 237 stones were divided into four groups based on their gross findings; cholesterol stones (32.0%), mixed cholesterol (29.2%), black
pigmented (26.4%), and brown pigmented (12.3%). After chemical composition analysis, they were resorted into the two following groups
according to their cholesterol proportions: pigmented (28.3%) and cholesterol (71.7%). There were significant statistical mean age differences
between the pigmented and cholesterol stone groups (58.5±19.8 vs. 34.4±11.0, p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

This descriptive study showed the hospital-based clinical incidence of GBS and suggested that there might be a discrepancy in stone classification
based on gross findings and chemical compositions. Moreover, pigmented stones are more likely to be present in older patients than cholesterol
stones.
A Review of the Rational and Current Evidence on Colchicine for COVID-19
Authors: Ghaith Hazem S. , Gabra Mohamed Diaa , Nafady Mohamed H. , Elshawah Hamza Emad , Negida Ahmed , Mushtaq Gohar , Kamal Mohammad Amjad
Published: December 2021

The current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has affected millions of individuals worldwide.
Despite extensive research efforts, few therapeutic options currently offer direct clinical benefits for
COVID-19 patients. Despite the advances in our understanding of COVID-19, the mortality rates remain significantly
high owing to the high viral transmission rates in several countries and the rise of various mutations in
the SARS-CoV-2. One currently available and widely used drug that combines both anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory
actions is colchicine, which has been proposed as a possible treatment option for COVID-19.
Colchicine still did not get much attention from the medical and scientific communities despite its antiinflammatory
and immunomodulatory mechanisms of action and positive preliminary data from early trials.
This literature review article provides the scientific rationale for repurposing colchicine as a potential therapy
for COVID-19. Further, we summarize colchicine’s mechanisms of action and possible roles in COVID-19 patients.
Finally, we supplement this review with a summary of the doses, side effects, and early efficacy data
from clinical trials to date. Despite the promising early findings from multiple observational and clinical trials
about the potential of colchicine in COVID-19, the data from the RECOVERY trial, the largest COVID-19 randomized
controlled trial (RCT) in the world, showed no evidence of clinical benefits in mortality, hospital
stays, or disease progression (n = 11340 patients). However, multiple other smaller clinical trials showed significant
clinical benefits. We conclude that while current evidence does not support the use of colchicine for treating
COVID-19, the present body of evidence is heterogeneous and inconclusive. The drug cannot be used in
clinical practice or abandoned from clinical research without additional large RCTs providing more robust evidence.
At present, the drug should not be used except for investigational purposes.
A Randomized Trial of Short-term Treatment with Folic Acid to Reduce the
Oxidative Stress of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Matsumoto Andressa Keiko , Michelin Ana Paula , Semeão Laura de Oliveira , Sepúlveda-Loyola Walter , de Lima Pedrão João Victor , Porto Guilherme Martins , Arceni Beatriz Suellen , Moreira Estefânia Gastaldello , Delfino Vinicius Daher Alvares , Barbosa Décio Sabbatini
Published: December 2021

Background:

Increased generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in chronic kidney disease
(CKD) patients leads to increased oxidative stress. The antioxidant capacity of folic acid has been shown to scavenge
radicals efficiently.

Objective:

The current study was carried out to examine the effects of folic acid treatment on biochemical and oxidative
stress biomarkers in patients in different stages of CKD.

Methods:

This was a randomized, non-blinded, clinical trial that assessed the effects of 3 months of treatment with 5
mg of folic acid daily or no treatment in 113 outpatients within CKD stages 3a and 3b. At the end of the intervention,
we analyzed the data of 66 patients treated with folic acid and 47 in the control group. Serum homocysteine levels
and biochemical and oxidative/nitrosative stress biomarkers were analyzed in all patients.

Results:

In most patients, folic acid treatment normalized homocysteine levels and increased antioxidant enzyme
activity (paraoxonase 1) and decreased sulfhydryl (SH) groups. In addition, oxidative biomarkers (products of nitric
oxide and lipid hydroperoxide) were significantly lower post-treatment compared to baseline in the active intervention
group. In the no active intervention group, no statistically significant effects were found on the oxidative and
biochemical biomarkers.

Conclusion:

Folic acid treatment in stages 3a-4 CKD patients effectively ameliorated their hyperhomocysteinemia
and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, as well as decreased the levels of pro-oxidant biomarkers in stage
G3a and G3b CKD patients. Folic acid treatment attenuated oxidative/nitrosative stress and may be considered as a
possible strategy to improve redox status and diminish the damages associated with oxidative/nitrosative stress in
CKD patients. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Clinical Trials Register No:

This study is registered in the Brazilian Record of Clinical Trials (ReBEC), under reference
RBR-2bfthr.
Regulatory mechanism of the SNHG3/miR-302a-3p/E2F1 feedback loop in nerve repair post cerebral ischemic stroke
Authors: Sun Xiaoyu , Wang Lizhou , Huang Xueqing , Zhou Shi , Jiang Tianpeng
Published: December 2021

Objective:

Cerebral ischemic stroke (CIS) remains a primary cause of death worldwide. The current knowledge has identified the implication of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the pathophysiology of CIS. This study investigated the mechanism of miR-302a-3p in nerve repair post-CIS.

Methods:

A middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was established in mice to simulate CIS. miR-302a-3p expression in brain tissues of MCAO mice was up-regulated by injecting agomiR-302a-3p. The neurological deficit of MCAO mice was evaluated through neurological function score, forelimb placing test, and balance beam walking test. Neuronal damage was measured using Nissl staining. The concentrations of nerve injury-related factors (S100B and GFAP) and the contents of neuroinflammatory factors (TNF-α and IL-1β) in serum were examined using ELISA kits. miR-302a-3p, E2F1, and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) SNHG3 expressions in brain tissues of MCAO mice were determined using RT-qPCR and Western blot. The binding relationships between miR-302a-3p and E2F1 and E2F1 and SNHG3 were validated using dual-luciferase and ChIP assays, respectively.

Results:

miR-302a-3p expression was reduced in brain tissues of MCAO mice. miR-302a-3p overexpression increased the number of neurons, decreased the concentrations of S100B and GFAP, reduced the contents of TNF-α and IL-1β, promoted nerve repair, and alleviated CIS-induced brain injury. miR-302a-3p targeted E2F1 expression, and E2F1 activated SNHG3 transcription. E2F1 overexpression or SNHG3 overexpression reversed the effect of miR-302a-3p overexpression on nerve repair in MCAO mice.

Conclusion:

miR-302a-3p overexpression repressed SNHG3 transcription by targeting E2F1 expression, thereby promoting nerve repair and alleviating CIS.
Gabapentin Antioxidant Derivatives with Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroprotective
Potency
Authors: Papagiouvannis Georgios , Theodosis-Nobelos Panagiotis , Tziona Paraskevi , Gavalas Antonios , Kourounakis Panos N. , Rekka Eleni A.
Published: December 2021

Aims:

The aim of this work is to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potency of
novel gabapentin derivatives, which could be proven useful as neuroprotective agents.

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders worldwide.
Due to its multi-factorial character, no effective treatment has been obtained yet. In this direction,
the multi-targeting compounds approach could be useful for the development of novel, more effective
drugs against AD. Oxidative stress and inflammation are highly involved in the progression of neurodegeneration,
while gabapentin has been investigated for the treatment of behavioral symptoms in AD.

Objective:

In this work, derivatives of cinnamic acid, Trolox, and 3,5-di-tertbutyl-4-hydroxybenzoic acid
amidated with gabapentin methyl ester were designed and studied. Compounds with these structural characteristics
are expected to act in various biochemical pathways, affecting neurodegenerative processes.

Methods:

The designed compounds were synthesized with classical amidation methods, purified by flash
column chromatography, and identified spectrometrically (1H-NMR and 13C-NMR). Their purity was
determined by CHN elemental analysis. They were tested in vitro for their antioxidant and antiinflammatory
properties and for their inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase. Their in vivo antiinflammatory
activity was also tested.

Results:

Molecules that incorporated antioxidant moiety possessed inhibitory activity against rat microsomal
membrane lipid peroxidation and oxidative protein glycation, as well as radical scavenging activity.
Moreover, most of them presented moderate inhibition towards lipoxygenase (up to 51% at 100μΜ)
and acetylcholinesterase (AchE) (IC50 up to 274μΜ) activities. Finally, all synthesized compounds presented
in vivo anti-inflammatory activity, decreasing carrageenan-induced rat paw edema up to 53%, and
some of them could inhibit cyclooxygenase significantly.

Conclusion:

These results indicate that the designed compounds could be proven useful as multitargeting
molecules against AD since they affect various biochemical pathways associated with neurodegeneration.
Thus, more effective drugs can be obtained, and the possible adverse effects of drug combinations
can be limited.
Treatment Outcomes of the Standardized Shorter MDR-TB Regimen Under
Programmatic Setting: A Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Care
Centre, India
Authors: Swapna R. , Swathi K.M.P , Somashekar M. , Chakraborty A. , Akshata J.S. , Nagaraja C.
Published: December 2021

Background:

The shorter regimen was widely accepted and advocated for MDR-TB
treatment compared tothe conventional longer regimen. Evaluating the performance of both regimens
in a programmatic setting will help in tailoring the treatment regimen of MDR-TB.

Objectives:

To estimate the duration of sputum smear conversion in the shorter MDR-TB regimen.
2. To compare the treatment outcomes of the shorter MDR-TB regimen with that of the longer conventional
MDR regimen in a programmatic set up in India. 3. To estimate the adverse drug reactions
in the shorter MDR-TB regimen.

Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 320 patients enrolled under programmatic
management of drug resistant tuberculosis (PMDT) from April 2017 to May 2019 at a
nodal DRTB center and a tertiary care hospital in India. Demographic and clinical characteristics
of those who received a shorter MDR-TB regimen were recorded. Treatment outcomes of both regimens
were recorded. Treatment success is defined as ‘disease cured and treatment completed’,
whereas treatment failure was considered when the treatment was either terminated or changed due
to lack of bacteriological conversion at the end of an extended intensive phase or culture reversion
in the continuation phase.

Results:

The treatment success observed in the shorter MDR-TB regimen was 61.25%, which was
significantly higher than the conventional longer regimen (p=0.0007). Treatment failures were higher
with a shorter MDR-TB regimen (p=0.0001).

Conclusion:

Treatment success with the shorter MDR-TB regimen though higher than the conventional
regimen, is still way behind the target treatment success rate. Improving treatment adherence
remains pivotal for achieving end TB targets.