bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA-129-5p targets keap-1 to protect against cardiomyocyte hypertrophy via Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Ye Huiming , Xu Guiyu , Zhang Dexian , Wang Rupeng
Published: January 2020

Background: Cardiac hypertrophy is a common pathological process of many cardiac diseases and persistent cardiac hypertrophy is the main cause of heart failure and sudden cardiogenic death. It is of great value to elucidate the mechanism of cardiac hypertrophy for better prevention and treatment. Methods: The protein levels were measured by western blotting or RT-qPCR. cardiomyocytes hypertrophy was evaluated by [3H]-leucine incorporation assay. oxidative stress was measured by corresponding detection kits. The target relationship was measured by Luciferase reporter gene assay. Morphological change of cardiomyocyte was measured by immunofluorescence staining. Results: In our study, we for the first time revealed the effects and regulatory mechanism of miR-296-5p in cardiac hypertrophy in vitro . We found suppressed expression of miR-129-5p and elevated expression of keap-1 in Ang II-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy model. MiR-129-5p mimic effectively suppressed Ang II-induced hypertrophic responses and oxidative stress. Further experiments showed that keap-1 is a target of miR-129-5p, and miR-129-5p inhibitor promoted cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and oxidative stress by elevating keap-1. Besides, si-keap-1 mediated the activation of Nrf2 pathway, while miR-129-5p inhibitor inactivated the Nrf2 pathway by further elevating keap-1. Conclusions: MiR-129-5p mimic protects against Ang II induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy via activating Nrf2 pathway by targeting keap-1.
Risk Factors for postoperative shoulder pain of acromioclavicular joint dislocation treat with hook plate
Authors: Xu Ding , Lou Weigang , Luo Peng , Shi Yulong , Guo Weijun , Chen Jianming
Published: January 2020

Background: Postoperative shoulder pain was a most common complication after clavicular hook plate treatment for acromioclavicular joint dislocation. However, the researches on its risk factors were rare. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidences of postoperative shoulder pain of acromioclavicular joint dislocation treat with hook plate and to identify risk factors in patients with an acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Method: We retrospectively analyzed the prospectively collected data from 310 consecutive patients with AC joint dislocation between December 2014 and August 2019 at our institute. Patients rated the average intensity of shoulder pain using an 11-point numerical rating scale (NRS). The dependent variable was the presence of moderate-to-severe neck pain (NRS ≥4) at the last follow-up when the internal fixation will be removed. The independent variables included age, gender, body-mass index (BMI), smoking status, alcohol consumption, type of injury, Rockwood Classification, site of injury, operation time, injury-to-surgery, DHA, DH and AHP. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors of moderate-to-severe shoulder pain of acromioclavicular joint dislocation treat with hook plate. Results: A total of 292 patients were included in the study and 18 cases were lost to follow-up. The follow-up rate was 94.1%. In all cases, there were 166 male cases and 126 female cases. Of these cases, the NRS < 4 group had 219 patients. Among them, there were 120 males and 99 females. 12 patients were lost to follow-up. There were 73 patients in NRS ≥ 4 group, 46 males and 27 females. 6 cases were lost to follow-up. The number of patient in NRS ≥ 4 group accounted for about 25.0% of the total cases. DH was the significant independent risk factor for postoperative shoulder pain of acromioclavicular joint dislocation treat with hook plate. DHA and AHP were also independent factors of postoperative shoulder pain, but they were all protective. Conclusions: DH was the significant independent risk factor for postoperative shoulder pain of acromioclavicular joint dislocation treat with hook plate. DHA and AHP were also independent factors of postoperative shoulder pain, but they were all protective. We should try to refer to these factors to avoid postoperative shoulder pain when performing clinical operations.
Displaced Type II Odontoid Fracture with Congenital Proximal Cervical Spine Anomalies Treated with Noninvasive Halo Vest: Clinical, Functional And Radiological Outcome. A Case Report.
Authors: Eltayeb Mustafa
Published: January 2020

Study Design: A retrospective study. Objective: To evaluate the clinical, functional and radiological outcomes of noninvasive halo in the treatment of a displaced type 2 odontoid fracture in a patient with congenital proximal cervical spine anomalies. Case report: A 42 years old male applied to our institution 2 years ago with the complaint of neck pain after falling down from a 10 meters height. The patient was neurologically intact and diagnosed as displaced type 2 odontoid fracture. The patient had congenital elongated odontoid process and posterior fusion of C2-C3. Against medical advice the patient refused surgery and also refused the invasive halo vest. Noninvasive halo vest was applied for 8 weeks. The patient was followed up clinically radiologically and functionally. Results: Neurological status remained same till the last follow up which was ASIA E. VAS score was 9 initially and it was improved up to 2 during the last follow up. The patient had normal range of motion during the last follow up. Reduction of the fracture was maintained and fracture healed after 8 weeks confirmed by X-ray. Initially Patient had transient facial edema subsided by day 4, pressure ulcer which responded to dressing, also the patient had difficulties to chew hard food and self-hygiene. Conclusion : Noninvasive halo can be a salvage option to reduce type 2 displaced odontoid fractures. Maintaining range of motion of cervical spine especially in young patient with proximal cervical spine congenital anomalies. In addition it is more Cost effective than surgery.
Developmental pathways of pulmonary abnormalities in rheumatoid arthritis according to sequential HRCT findings
Authors: Tanaka Ayae , Kurasawa Kazuhiro , Soda Sayo , Takamura Yuta , Miyao Tomoyuki , Hasegawa Anna , Hiyama Tomoka , Yamazaki Ryutaro , Arai Satoko , Owada Takayoshi , Arima Masafumi , Maezawa Reika
Published: January 2020

BackgroundTo determine the patterns and development pathways of pulmonary abnormalities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive RA patients who underwent high-resolution CT (HRCT) before and during biologic therapy. The presence of and change in 20 pulmonary lesions were recorded. Patterns of pre-existing and new lesions were examined by cluster analysis and tested for a correlation between pre-existing and new lesions.ResultsThe subjects were 208 patients (mean age, 59.2 years; mean disease duration, 7.9 years). The mean duration between HRCT examinations was 3.3 years. Pulmonary abnormalities were found in 70% of the patients: interstitial lung disease (ILD) in 39%, nodular lesions in 22%, and airway disease (AD) in 55%. There were commonly several different lesions in the same patient, and coexistence patterns were detected. In patients with abnormalities, AD was a shared abnormality. The incidence of pulmonary abnormalities was 10.5/100 person-years. Bronchiolitis was identified as the initial lesion. In patients with pre-existing abnormalities, a variety of new abnormalities developed in several patterns; e.g., ILD and progression of AD occurred in patients with AD. Strong correlation was found between new ground-glass opacity and each of pre-existing AD and honeycombing.ConclusionsPulmonary abnormalities exist and develop in patterns rather than at random. Based on the present findings, we propose the following development pathway for pulmonary abnormalities in RA: the initial lesion is bronchiolitis, which leads to the formation of complex AD, from which a variety of pulmonary lesions arise, particularly ILDs.
Effect of sedatives on in-hospital and long-term mortality of critically ill patients requiring extended mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours
Authors: Lee Hannah , Choi Seongmi , Jang Eun Jin , Lee Juhee , Kim Dalho , Yoo Seokha , Oh Seung Young , Lee Ji-Eun , Ryu Ho Geol
Published: January 2020

Background The purpose of this study was to assess the correlation between sedatives and mortality in critically ill patients who required mechanical ventilation (MV) for ≥48 hours from 2007 to 2016.Methods We conducted a nationwide retrospective cohort study using population-based healthcare reimbursement claims database. : Data from adult patients (aged ≥18) who underwent MV for ≥48 hours between 2008 and 2016 were identified and extracted from the National Health Insurance Service database. The benzodiazepine group consisted of patients who were administered benzodiazepines for sedation during MV. All other patients were assigned to the non-benzodiazepine group.Results A total of 158,712 patients requiring MV for ≥48 hours were admitted in 55 centers in Korea from 2007 to 2016. The benzodiazepine group had significantly higher in-hospital and one-year mortality compared to the non-benzodiazepine group (37.0% vs. 34.3%, 55.0% vs. 54.4%, respectively). Benzodiazepine use decreased from 2008 to 2016, after adjusting for age, sex, and mean Elixhauser comorbidity index in the Poisson regression analysis (incidence rate ratio, 0.968; 95% CI 0.954–0.983; p < 0.001) whereas dexmedetomidine sales have continuously increased since the second half of 2010. Benzodiazepine use, older age, lower case volume (≤500 cases/year), chronic kidney disease, and higher Elixhauser comorbidity index were common significant risk factors for in-hospital and one-year mortality.Conclusion In critically ill patients undergoing MV for >48 hours, the use of benzodiazepines for sedation was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality and one-year mortality.
Speckle tracking echocardiography before and after Surgical pulmonary valve replacement in Tetralogy of Fallot patients: Can STE elucidate early left ventricular dysfunction?
Authors: Ajami Gholam Hossein , Alwasabi Fathi , Mehdizadegan Nima , Edraki Mohammad Reza , Mohammadi Hamid , Amirghofran Ahmad ali , Ghasemzade Bahram , Keshavarz Kambiz , Amoozgar Hamid , Arabi Hamid , Naghshzan Amir , Borzouee Mohammad , Peiravian Farah
Published: January 2020

Objectives: TOF is the most common cyanotic CHD. We investigated left ventricular (LV) function after surgical pulmonary valve replacement (sPVR) in patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF) by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography (STE).Methods: 58 volunteers participated in this study who divided into 3 groups including 22 PVR patients (mean age 18.96±7 year), 16 repaired Tetralogy of Fallot and 20 healthy age match control. For all patients, we performed 2D echocardiography and STE.Results: 2D echocardiography in all groups showed normal LV ejection fraction without a significant statistical difference (64% sPVR, 60% in repaired Tetralogy of Fallot and 62.5% in the control group). However, the mean global longitudinal strains (GLS) of LV were significantly reduced in both sPVR (-17.5±2.5%) and repaired Tetralogy of Fallot (-17.1±4.7%) patients rather than control group (-20.2±0.7%) (P = 0.003). But GLS had no statistically significant difference between repaired Tetralogy of Fallot and sPVR patients (P=0.9). Segmental analysis of longitudinal strain (LS) showed a significant decrease in sPVR patients and repaired Tetralogy of Fallot group in basal anterior, basal septal, basal anterolateral segments, mid-anterior and anterolateral segments. Except for lower LS in the apical-anteroseptal segment, this level was mostly spared in both sPVR and repaired Tetralogy of Fallot patients.Conclusion: LVEF was within normal range after sPVR patients, but the pattern of impaired segmental LS and GLS did not change as compared with rTOF. Surgical PVR in patients with repaired TOF may not have a significant effect on the improvement of LV function assessed by STE. LV damage which happens during surgical correction of TOF may have a permanent deteriorating effect on LV function.
Timing and Outcome of Surgical Treatment in Supracondylar Humeral Fractures in Pediatric Patients, Khartoum, Sudan
Authors: Tahir Khalid Abdelsalam , Ibrahim Ashrf E J. , Elbahri Hassan Mohamed Hassan
Published: January 2020

A study aims to evaluate the timing of close surgical treatment in supracondylar humeral fractures in pediatric patients and to know the radiological outcome of its management, through measuring the mean delay per hour and assessing post-surgical radiological outcome for reduction. A cross- sectional hospitals based study carried out in Khartoum state, through randomized cluster sampling, both data sheets and pre/post-surgical images were filled and collected. A well-constructed criteria were developed to assess the radiological outcome. With sample size of 41 cases, we found that the mean delay from trauma to surgery was 99 hours [SE, 13], equivalent to 4.13 days. The reduction outcome criterion was significant when comparing it with the surgeon level P value of 0.015, but when comparing it with the delay more than 32 hours and Gartland classification both weren’t significant with P values of 0.383 and 0.501 respectively. These results are refuting the current concepts about the impossible reduction after a delay more than 32 hours and filled the current gap of knowledge about the outcome of supracondylar humeral fractures Gartland III with delayed presentation.
To assess the quality of life in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis at a satellite clinic, comparing patients from a median low-income household with patients from median middle- and upper-income households: cross-sectional study
Authors: JUNIOR UBIRACE FERNANDO ELIHIMAS , Forte Marília Costa Aranha , Pinto Alexandre Holanda Cavalcanti , França Eduardo Eriko Tenório de , Couto Jamila Pinho , Carvalho Antônio Augusto Lima , Filho Gutemberg Alves , Cabral Diogo Buarque Codeiro , Feitosa Saulo José da Costa , Aguiar Filipe Carrilho , Pereira Wallace , Cavalcanti Frederico Castelo Branco , Schwingel Paulo Adriano
Published: January 2020

Background: Chronic kidney disease is a financial challenge for global public health due to rising costs, a poorer quality of life. Globally, there has been an increase in the number of diabetic, hypertensive and obese patients, with a tendency to rise as life expectancy increases. Objective: To assess the quality of life of patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis at a satellite clinic in Recife, Northeast Brazil, and comparing low-income patients funded by the national healthcare system with middle- and higher-income patients funded by private health insurance. Methods: The Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36) was applied, together with a complementary interview with socio-demographic data for all patients at a conventional hemodialysis clinic. All patients were submitted to the same hemodialysis protocol, 4 hours and 10 minutes, high flow biocompatible membranes with high mass transfer coefficient and an adequacy of Kt/V ≥1.2. Results: The poorest quality of life scores with the SF-36 were related to physical functioning and pain. The best scores were attributed to mental health, social functioning, general health and vitality with no differences between the household incomes. There was a positive association between education, role-emotional and physical functioning. Longer hemodialysis treatment times demonstrated a positive association with aspects of general health. Patients who had undergone hemodialysis between one and five years presented better quality of life scores with the SF-36. Conclusions: Hemodialysis treatment negatively influences the quality of life of patients with chronic kidney disease. Education seems to help patients to better understand and accept treatment, by raising the scores of the physical functioning and role-physical. The first year of hemodialysis seems to exert a more negative influence on the quality of life. Among all patients, pain and physical aspects seem to be the critical points, regardless of social class or income.
Preoperative Diagnosis of Hepatic Sinus Obstruction Syndrome Caused by Tusanqi and Evaluation of Therapeutic Effects after TIPS by Imaging and Pathology
Authors: YuSheng HE , kaicai Liu , weifu lv , chunze Zhou , Delei Cheng , Yijiang Zhu , Dong Lu , zhengfeng Zhang , Jingkun Xiao , Xingming Zhang
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND:Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt(TIPS) is a method for the treatment of hepatic sinus obstruction syndrome (HSOS). This study investigated the preoperative diagnosis and prognosis of hsos caused by Tushanqi from the perspective of imaging and pathology. MATERIAL AND METHOD: TIPS was administered to our hospital for 19 patients with HSOS who had a history of taking Tusanqi soaking liquor or Chinese medicine between September 2014 to December 2018. They underwent enhanced abdominal CT or MR scans on the day before surgery and one month after surgery. ultrasound-guided liver biopsy, and specimens for HE staining.RESULTS:Preoperative imaging showed increased liver volume, uneven density, moderate to severe effusion in the abdominal cavity, thickening and distortion of the hepatic artery, uneven perfusion of the liver parenchyma, slender or unclear three hepatic veins, and slender inferior vena cava or flat, but still unobstructed. Pathological examination showed extensive edema and degeneration of hepatocytes. hepatic sinus was obviously congested, dilated, fibrous connective tissue proliferated, and expanded venules in the interfiber space.One month after operation: the liver volume was smaller than before, no obvious abnormalities were found in the liver parenchyma, and the peritoneal effusion was significantly less or even disappeared.Postoperative pathology showed marked improvement of hepatocellular edema, slight dilatation and congestion of hepatic sinus.CONCLUSIONS: Imaging and pathology can help the diagnosis of HSOS by Tusanqi , but also evaluate the therapeutic effect of TIPS on the disease.
Joaquim-Francisco Coelho (1938-2019)
Authors: Blackmore Josiah
Published: January 2020

Joaquim-Francisco Coelho left this world on September 25, 2019 in the way he inhabited it: quietly and tranquilly, with his loving family by his side. Up to the last, even in fragile health, Joaquim was concerned about the well-being of others, always finding humor in daily existence and offering a joke as a way of putting others at ease and of coming to terms, in some way, with the flux and flow of life itself.
O CURRÍCULO DE QUÍMICA NA EDUCAÇÃO BÁSICA: CONCEPÇÕES E PRÁTICAS DE PROFESSORES
Authors: Vianna Nycollas Stefanello , Ritter Jaqueline
Published: January 2020

O presente artigo traz resultados parciais de Dissertação de Mestrado no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Educação em Ciência de uma Universidade Federal do sul do Brasil. Perguntou-se: que Currículo de Química os professores consideram relevante e sobre quais critérios assenta-se a sua escolha? Ouviu-se professores de Escolas Públicas do Ensino Médio através de uma entrevista semiestruturada analisada à luz da metodologia de Análise Textual Discursiva (ATD). O objetivo geral da pesquisa consistiu em reconhecer e interpretar o que pensa e concebe a comunidade de Educação Química (Professores) sobre o Currículo de Química na Educação Básica, em termos de concepções, discursos e práticas. Reconheceu-se cinco categorias de análise, as quais são apresentadas com proposições, sendo que para este artigo optou-se por apresentar três dessas categorias: Currículo Inovador; Currículo Tecnicista e Currículo como discurso/definição. Dentre os resultados percebeu-se que os docentes reconhecem que há a necessidade um currículo inovador, que relacione os conteúdos científicos com o cotidiano do estudante, bem como, contemple metodologias diferenciadas de trabalho em sala de aula; interpretadas no horizonte das condições teórico-práticas.
CONTEÚDOS PROGRAMÁTICOS EM LIVROS DIDÁTICOS DE CIÊNCIAS DO 6º AO 9º ANO DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL
Authors: D'Aquino Rosa Marcelo , Silva Pedro Barbi Juliana , Megid Neto Jorge
Published: January 2020

Este artigo investiga a organização dos conteúdos de Ciências presentes nas coleções didáticas dos anos finais do Ensino Fundamental, aprovadas no Programa Nacional do Livro Didático de 2017, pelo referencial metodológico da análise de conteúdo. Foram estabelecidas duas categorias de coleções, denominadas tradicionais e não tradicionais. Constatamos que dez coleções de Ciências presentes no Guia de Livros Didáticos de 2017 apresentam um aspecto tradicional, de acordo com a distribuição dos conteúdos nos livros didáticos, enquanto as obras de caráter não tradicional são três. Inferimos que as mudanças na estrutura dos conteúdos nas coleções didáticas de Ciências não ocorrem porque o livro didático tradicional ainda é mais selecionado, sendo que as coleções de caráter inovador possuem menor adesão pelos professores em atividade. Observamos que essa situação leva o livro didático a permanecer concebido dentro de um modelo tradicional em relação aos conteúdos, fator que persiste fortemente em sua produção, com grande impacto na estrutura curricular das coleções. Concluímos que o conjunto das coleções permanece concentrado em uma organização desatualizada segundo a legislação educacional vigente, centrada em áreas de conhecimento compartimentadas e não integradas, ao invés de eixos temáticos integrados e com abordagem conceitual progressiva ao longo dos anos letivos.
ANÁLISE DE UMA SEQUÊNCIA DIDÁTICA SOBRE FERMENTAÇÃO: INTERAÇÕES DISCURSIVAS E A ELABORAÇÃO DO CONHECIMENTO
Authors: Lorencini Júnior Álvaro , Rossi Sbardellati Christiane
Published: January 2020

Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as interações discursivas entre a professora e seus alunos em uma sequência didática sobre fermentação. A análise enfoca o processo mental construído pelo aluno durante a elaboração do conhecimento. Nessa pesquisa foram analisados episódios  de uma sequência didática com alunos do 7º ano do Ensino Fundamental de uma escola particular do município de Maringá – Paraná. Os dados foram coletados durante as aulas no laboratório da escola, mediante gravações em áudio com um grupo de 10 alunos. Para a análise dos conteúdos de aprendizagem da sequência didática aplicada e das interações discursivas construídas, utilizou-se a estrutura analítica proposta por Zabala (1998) e as categorias idealizadas por Mortimer e Scott (2002) respectivamente, visto que nos dão suporte no sentido de compreender a importância do ambiente, do diálogo e das interações entre os indivíduos. Os resultados obtidos evidenciam os padrões discursivos durante as intervenções da professora, bem como foi possível identificar elementos potenciais e limitantes que favorecem ou impedem a elaboração do conhecimento por parte dos alunos, no sentido da re(estruturação) de suas ideias e na construção de novos significados.

 

Palavras-chave: Ensino de Ciências; Interações Discursivas; Sequência Didática
ORGANIZAÇÃO DO ENSINO DE ARTE COM BASE EM PRESSUPOSTOS DA TEORIA HISTÓRICO – CULTURAL
Authors: Oliveira Valdiléia Xavier de , Sforni Marta Sueli de Faria
Published: January 2020

A presente pesquisa, de natureza qualitativa, teve como objetivo de investigar como o ensino de Arte pode ser organizado para que promova o desenvolvimento dos estudantes. Para a sua efetivação, foram realizadas análises documentais, estudos bibliográficos e um experimento didático.  Os estudos bibliográficos foram fundamentados em autores da Teoria Histórico-Cultural e obras de outros autores que trabalham com o tema desta pesquisa com base no mesmo referencial teórico e que proporcionaram a compreensão sobre a relação entre a Arte o desenvolvimento das funções psicológicas superiores. O experimento didático foi desenvolvido com estudantes do 3º ano do Ensino Fundamental de uma escola pública de um município da região noroeste do Estado do Paraná. A análise das atividades organizadas e desenvolvidas por meio do experimento didático possibilitou a identificação das funções psíquicas superiores mobilizadas durante as atividades de ensino, bem como as ações docentes que foram determinantes para a promoção da aprendizagem s e, consequentemente, para o desenvolvimento psíquico dos estudantes.
A ATIVIDADE DE ESTUDO COMO UM PROCESSO PROPULSOR DO DESENVOLVIMENTO PSÍQUICO
Authors: Oliveira Junior Antonio Paulino de , Miguel José Carlos
Published: January 2020

Este estudo apresenta uma síntese teórica de uma pesquisa bibliográfica acerca da atividade de estudo e o seu papel fundamental para o desenvolvimento psíquico de sujeitos em processos educativos. Trata-se da atividade humana como um princípio fundamental da formação, constituição e desenvolvimento histórico do ser humano e sua inter-relação com o ensino e a aprendizagem. Foram abordados nesse texto os postulados teóricos encontrados em autores como Leontiev, Davidov e Elkonin, os quais corroboraram para o desenvolvimento da teoria da atividade e o delineamento da atividade de estudo como um fator educativo e de desenvolvimento humano. O estudo apontou que a atividade de estudo, independente do período da vida, dispõe ao sujeito um desenvolvimento que o leva a operar com os conceitos científicos e objetos circundantes por intermédio de ações mentais. Ao chegar a esse patamar de desenvolvimento, o sujeito não só modifica a forma como interage com o mundo, mas também transforma o meio circundante. Nesse sentido, chegou-se ao entendimento que esse ponto concentra-se o cerne da perspectiva histórico-cultural, o qual pressupõe uma superação ou mudança das condições postas, por intermédio desse movimento dialético presente na estrutura da atividade especificamente humana.
O Cluster Automotivo Sul Fluminense: experiência de arranjo produtivo ou arranjo institucional?
Authors: Lima Raphael Jonathas da Costa , Paiva Alexandre Duarte de
Published: January 2020

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar o Cluster Automotivo Sul Fluminense (CASF), aglomerado industrial inspirado pela experiência da PSA Peugeot Citroën no Cluster de Empresas de Automoción de Galicia (CEAGA), da Espanha. O cluster está localizado no estado do Rio de Janeiro, mais precisamente na Região das Agulhas Negras, um importante polo da indústria automobilística brasileira. Desde os anos 1990, os municípios da região vêm concentrando importantes investimentos da indústria automobilística a partir de cinco montadoras (MAN Latin America, PSA Peugeot Citroën, Renault-Nissan, Hyundai e Jaguar Land Rover) e de fornecedores nacionais e estrangeiros, que geram cerca de 30 mil postos de trabalho a nível regional. O artigo analisa o processo de criação do cluster e os principais resultados desta iniciativa a partir de uma abordagem qualitativa, com entrevistas de integrantes das montadoras. Como resultado, observa-se que, a curto prazo, o cluster pretende assegurar condições de concorrência para as empresas ao incidir sobre assuntos estratégicos, como a educação, energia, transporte e habitação. A médio/longo prazo pretende fortalecer a competitividade da região, promovendo a cooperação, o intercâmbio de conhecimentos, a aprendizagem e a abertura cultural, aumentando os investimentos e fomentando as relações interfirmas e delas com o poder público.
Percepções dos Residentes em São Bento do Sul (SC) sobre as Possibilidades de Desenvolvimento do Município
Authors: Rangel Ronaldo Raemy , Palmisano Angelo , Tonon Daniel Henrique Paiva , Rangel Nathália Alonso
Published: January 2020

O objetivo deste estudo foi o de identificar a percepção dos residentes no município de São Bento do Sul (SC) sobre as possibilidades de desenvolvimento daquela localidade, a partir das estimativas da Matriz de Insumo-Produto da região obtidas na pesquisa de Brene et al. (2011), realizada em 2010. Quanto à metodologia, esta pesquisa se caracteriza como quantitativa/qualitativa pelos métodos e técnicas empregados (método Delphi, estatística descritiva e multivariada, além de análise fatorial). Os principais resultados apontam para a não percepção dos moradores de que a constituição de Arranjos Produtivos Locais (APLs) pudessem representar possibilidades de melhoria, conforme identificados nas projeções quantitativas de Brene et al. (2011). O eventual potencial turístico da cidade não foi percebido pelos entrevistados como relevante para os demais setores produtivos do referido município. Observou-se que, embora os entrevistados identifiquem benefícios trazidos pela modernização de algumas empresas, seus setores não seriam contemplados por alocação de recursos. Contudo, outros atributos percebidos pelos entrevistados corroboram com as estimativas realizadas no estudo anterior.
Modyfikacje systemu wspomagającego pozycjonowanie pacjenta w czasie procedury napromieniania całego ciała
Authors: Zając Arkadiusz , Masternak Anna , Dąbrowski Stefan , Boruta Jan , Kraszewski Piotr , Gniadek Rafał
Published: January 2020

W publikacji przedstawiono wprowadzone modyfikacje do stworzonego w Narodowym Centrum Badań Jądrowych systemu wspomagającego poprawne

i powtarzalne ułożenie pacjenta podczas stosowania procedury napromieniania całego ciała
Complement or competition in water governance? Analysing two collaborative water management arrangements in one river basin
Authors: Mancheva Irina
Published: January 2020

This study aims at advancing collaborative governance theory by investigating the interaction between two different collaborative arrangements within the same forested area of high ecological and social value in the Vindel River basin. Semi-structured interviews, policy documents and observations of board meetings were analysed based on analytical typologies of collaborative arrangements to answer the following questions: which factors can explain why a new collaborative arrangement was established within an area where one already existed? In what way do the two arrangements compete with or complement each other? And, to what extent do they address the effects of forestry on water? The analysis shows that a new collaborative arrangement was formed because the existing arrangement did not materialise certain stakeholders' expectations. Moreover, the two collaborative arrangements do not compete but rather complement each other. The newly established organisational/action collaborative arrangement presented those stakeholders most interested in on-the-ground action with the appropriate venue while freeing them from the organisational/policy arrangement that did not match their aims. However, both arrangements experienced power misbalances as certain stakeholders were perceived as having more influence on their agenda. Collaboration at this local-regional level was found to focus on limited problems with concrete and feasible solutions, such as fish migration, rather than on the complex problems with solutions marked by ecological uncertainty and power asymmetries, e.g. diffuse pollution from forestry.
Enzyme activity of waste activated sludge extracts
Authors: Liu Ziyi , Smith Stephen R.
Published: January 2020

Wastewater treatment and generated biological sludge provide an alternative source of enzymes to conventional industrial production methods. Here, we present a protocol for extracting enzymes from activated sludge using ultrasonication and surfactant treatment. Under optimum conditions, ultrasound disruption of activated sludge gave recovery rates of protease and cellulase enzymes equivalent to 63.1% and ∼100%, respectively. The extracting of enzymes from activated sludge represents a potentially significant, high-value, resource recovery option for biological sludge generated by municipal wastewater treatment.
Biosynthesized Quantum Dots as Improved Biocompatible Tools for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Shi Keru , Xu Xinyi , Li Hanrui , Xie Hui , Chen Xueli , Zhan Yonghua
Published: January 2020

Quantum Dots (QDs), whose diameters are often limited to 10 nm, have been of interest to
researchers for their unique optical characteristics, which are attributed to quantum confinement.
Following their early application in the electrical industry as light-emitting diode materials, semiconductor
nanocrystals have continued to show great potential in clinical diagnosis and biomedical applications.
The conventional physical and chemical pathways for QD syntheses typically require
harsh conditions and hazardous reagents, and these products encounter non-hydrophilic problems due
to organic capping ligands when they enter the physiological environment. The natural reducing abilities
of living organisms, especially microbes, are then exploited to prepare QDs from available metal
precursors. Low-cost and eco-friendly biosynthesis approaches have the potential for further biomedical
applications which benefit from the good biocompatibility of protein-coated QDs. The surface
biomass offers many binding sites to modify substances or target ligands, therefore achieving
multiple functions through simple and efficient operations. Biosynthetic QDs could function as bioimaging
and biolabeling agents because of their luminescence properties similar to those of chemical
QDs. In addition, extensive research has been carried out on the antibacterial activity, metal ion detection
and bioremediation. As a result, this review details the advanced progress of biomedical applications
of biosynthesized QDs and illustrates these principles as clearly as possible.
Bioactive Constituents from South American Prosopis and their Use and Toxicity
Authors: Schmeda-Hirschmann Guillermo , Theoduloz Cristina , Jiménez-Aspee Felipe , Echeverría Javier
Published: January 2020

Background:

The pods from several South American Prosopis species have been considered relevant food in arid and semi-arid South America since prehistoric times. Traditionally the meal from the pods was processed to prepare different foods and beverages.

Objective:

The objective was to discuss literature from the archaeological evidence of use to study the chemistry and (bio)activity of the extracts and secondary metabolites occurring in different Prosopis food products.

Method:

The review was carried out by searching electronic databases, including ScienceDirect, SciFinder, Scopus, Scielo, Google Scholar, PubMed and hand-search on literature. The review mainly covers studies performed in the year 1995-2019 and the first-hand experience of the authors. References on the historical and prehistorical uses of the natural resource were also included.

Results:

In the last decades, most studies on the edible South American Prosopis focused on the constituents of pods meal, traditional preparations and by-products. Total 45 flavonoids, ellagic acid derivatives, catechin and simple phenolics were identified. Alkaloids occur mainly in the leaves, that are not used for human nutrition but as food for domestic animals. Piperidine alkaloids, tryptamine, tyramine and β-phenethylamine were isolated and identified from several species. The (bio)activity studies included mainly the antioxidant effect, antiinflammatory and enzyme inhibition associated with metabolic syndrome. The products showed no toxicity or mutagenic effect.

Conclusions:

While data on the chemistry, some (bio)activities and toxicity are available for the pods meal and byproducts, little is known about the composition of the fermented Algarrobo beverages. Further studies are needed on the digestion of Algarrobo products both in humans and cattle.
Evaluation of Strategies for Decreasing Blood Glucose Using Albuminbinding Domain
Authors: Fan Lin , Fan Yani , Fan Hongwei , Huang Kaizong
Published: January 2020

Objective:

Frequent administrations for DPPIV-resistant GLP-1 analogs are necessary to maintain the blood concentrations due to the short half-life of less than 5 minutes. However, most delivery systems that possess the ability of sustainable release of GLP-1 have drawbacks such as low yield, high cost and undesirable side effects. Therefore, we aimed to prepare a simple and efficient delivery system that could be feasibly applied to reduce blood glucose.

Methods:

A novel GLP-1 delivery system (GLP-1-ELPs-SA) was prepared and characterized by circular dichroism. Furthermore, the activity and property of GLP-1-ELPs-SA were evaluated in vitro and in vivo.

Results:

GLP-1-ELPs-SA are easily expressed in E. coli in a soluble formulation and purified through the inverse transition cycle. GLP-1-ELPs-SA spontaneously generated depot under physiological conditions. GLP-1-ELPs-SA was also found to be dispersed in the blood vessels from the depot and showed a high affinity to bind with mice (C57BL/6J) albumin, which shows that GLP-1-ELPs-SA has a long circulation time in vivo.

Conclusions:

Our delivery system could markedly decrease the clearance of recombinant proteins based on serum albumin, without substantially increasing the protein molecular weight and remarkably reducing the blood glucose within 120 h.
Disintegrin Tablysin-15 Suppresses Cancer Hallmarks in Melanoma Cells by Blocking FAK/Akt/ERK and NF-κB Signaling
Authors: Deng Zhenhui , Zeng Qingye , Chai Jinwei , Zhang Bei , Zheng Wenhong , Xu Xueqing , Wu Jiguo
Published: January 2020

Background:

Integrins are crucial anti-cancer therapy targets. We previously showed that
tablysin-15 is an integrin antagonist with its Arg-Gly-Asp motif in a novel structural context.

Objective:

Here we investigated the anti-cancer effects and mechanisms of action of tablysin-15 in
melanoma cells.

Methods:

Cell adhesion, competitive binding, cell viability, and ATP chemiluminescence assays
were used to analyze the binding of tablysin-15 to αvβ3 integrin and its phenotypic effects. Wound
healing, transwells, and zymography were performed to detect motility and matrix metalloproteinase-
2/-9 activities. PARP and caspase-3 cleavage were used as apoptosis assays, while LDH release
and flow cytometry were used for necrosis and cell cycle analysis. The expression of mRNAs and
proteins of target molecules was measured by qRT-PCR and western blotting, respectively.

Results:

Tablysin-15 dose-dependently inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of M21
cells through integrin αvβ3. The proliferation inhibition caused by tablysin-15 was attributable to
G0/G1 phase arrest rather than apoptosis or necrosis. Furthermore, tablysin-15 suppressed MMP-2/-
9 activities and the mRNA expression of MMP-2/-9 and COX-2 but was upregulated TIMP-1 in
M21 cells. Meanwhile, tablysin-15 suppressed the expression of cyclin D1/E and CDK 2/6, the
phosphorylation of FAK, Akt, and ERK, and nuclear translocation of NF-κB, while increasing the
expression of the CDK inhibitor p21waf1/C1. Taken together, tablysin-15 might inhibit melanoma cell
metastasis and proliferation by competing with αvβ3 integrin, thereby blocking FAK-associated signaling
pathways and nuclear translocation of NF-κB.

Conclusions:

Tablysin-15 has reliable anti-cancer effects against M21 melanoma cells, suggesting
tablysin-15 is a promising anti-tumor drug.
Telomerase-based Cancer Therapeutics: A Review on their Clinical Trials
Authors: Relitti Nicola , Saraswati Akella P. , Federico Stefano , Khan Tuhina , Brindisi Margherita , Zisterer Daniela , Brogi Simone , Gemma Sandra , Butini Stefania , Campiani Giuseppe
Published: January 2020

Telomeres are protective chromosomal ends that shield the chromosomes from DNA damage, exonucleolytic degradation, recombination, and end-to-end fusion. Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein that adds TTAGGG tandem repeats to the telomeric ends. It has been observed that 85 to 90% of human tumors express high levels of telomerase, playing a crucial role in the development of cancers. Interestingly, the telomerase activity is generally absent in normal somatic cells. This selective telomerase expression has driven scientists to develop novel anti-cancer therapeutics with high specificity and potency. Several advancements have been made in this area, which is reflected by the enormous success of the anticancer agent Imetelstat. Since the discovery of Imetelstat, several research groups have contributed to enrich the therapeutic arsenal against cancer. Such contributions include the application of new classes of small molecules, peptides, and hTERT-based immunotherapeutic agents (p540, GV1001, GRNVAC1 or combinations of these such as Vx-001). Many of these therapeutic tools are under different stages of clinical trials and have shown promising outcomes. In this review, we highlight the current status of telomerase-based cancer therapeutics and the outcome of these investigations.
Preparation and Application of Magnetic Responsive Materials in Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Li Song , Wei Changling , Lv Yonggang
Published: January 2020

At present, many kinds of materials are used for bone tissue engineering, such as polymer
materials, metals, etc., which in general have good biocompatibility and mechanical properties. However,
these materials cannot be controlled artificially after implantation, which may result in poor repair
performance. The appearance of the magnetic response material enables the scaffolds to have the corresponding
ability to the external magnetic field. Within the magnetic field, the magnetic response material
can achieve the targeted release of the drug, improve the performance of the scaffold, and further
have a positive impact on bone formation. This paper first reviewed the preparation methods of magnetic
responsive materials such as magnetic nanoparticles, magnetic polymers, magnetic bioceramic
materials and magnetic alloys in recent years, and then introduced its main applications in the field of
bone tissue engineering, including promoting osteogenic differentiation, targets release, bioimaging,
cell patterning, etc. Finally, the mechanism of magnetic response materials to promote bone regeneration
was introduced. The combination of magnetic field treatment methods will bring significant progress
to regenerative medicine and help to improve the treatment of bone defects and promote bone
tissue repair.
A Brief Analysis of Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Biological Drugs for the Treatment of Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF): Safety and Potency
Authors: Feng Ying , Wang Ai-Tong , Jia Hong-Hong , Zhao Meng , Yu Hao
Published: January 2020

Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure (ACLF) is characterized by acute exacerbation of chronic
hepatitis, organ failure, high mortality, and poor prognosis. At present, the clinical methods of treatment
include comprehensive treatment with medicines, artificial liver system, and Orthotopic Liver
Transplantation (OLT), and of these, OLT is considered the most effective treatment for ACLF. However,
it is difficult for ACLF patients to benefit from OLT due to the shortage of liver donors, high
cost, unpredictable postoperative complications, and long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs; therefore,
it is important to explore a new treatment option. With the development of stem cell transplantation
technology in recent years, several studies have shown that treatment of ACLF with Mesenchymal
Stem Cells (MSCs) leads to higher survival rates, and has good tolerance and safety rates, thereby improving
the liver function and quality of life of patients; it has also become one of the popular research
topics in clinical trials. This paper summarizes the current clinical interventions and treatments of
ACLF, including the clinical trials, therapeutic mechanisms, and research progress on MSC application
in the treatment of ACLF. The problems and challenges of the development of MSC-based therapy in
the future are also discussed.
BUB1B Promotes Proliferation of Prostate Cancer via Transcriptional Regulation of MELK
Authors: Tian Juan-Hua , Mu Li-Jun , Wang Mei-Yu , Zeng Jin , Long Qing-Zhi , Guan Bin , Wang Wen , Jiang Yu-Mei , Bai Xiao-Jing , Du Yue-Feng
Published: January 2020

Background:

Prostate cancer remains one of the most common and deadliest forms of cancer, generally
respond well to radical prostatectomy and associated interventions, up to 30% of individuals will suffer
disease relapse. Although BUB1B was found to be essential for cell growth and proliferation, even in several
kinds of tumor cells, the specific importance and mechanistic role of BUB1B in prostate cancer remain unclear.

Methods:

Quantitative Real-Time PCR and Western-blot were used in the detection of mRNA and protein expression.
Lentivirus infection was used to overexpression or knock down the target gene. Flow cytometry analysis
was performed to test protein expression and apoptosis level. Immunohistochemistry was used to identify
protein expression in tissue. Statistical differences between the two groups are evaluated by two-tailed t-tests.
The comparison among multiple groups is performed by one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by
Dunnett’s posttest. The statistical significance of the Kaplan-Meier survival plot is determined by log-rank
analysis.

Results:

In the present report, we found BUB1B expression to be highly increased in prostate cancer tissues
relative to normal controls. We further found BUB1B to be essential for efficient tumor cell proliferation, and to
correlate with poorer prostate cancer patient outcomes. From a mechanistic perspective, the ability of BUB1B to
regulate MELK was found to be essential for its ability to promote prostate cancer cell proliferation.

Conclusion:

Altogether, our data suggest that BUB1B is up-regulated in prostate cancer, suggesting that the
growth of cancer cells may depend on BUB1B-dependent regulation of MELK transcription. BUB1B may serve
as a clinical prognostic factor and a druggable target for prostate cancer.
The Effect of Phase Transition Temperature on Therapeutic Efficacy of Liposomal Bortezomib
Authors: Korani Mitra , Nikoofal-Sahlabadi Sara , Nikpoor Amin R. , Ghaffari Solmaz , Attar Hossein , Mashreghi Mohammad , Jaafari Mahmoud R.
Published: January 2020

Aims:

Here, three liposomal formulations of DPPC/DPPG/Chol/DSPE-mPEG2000 (F1), DPPC/DPPG/Chol (F2) and HSPC/DPPG/Chol/DSPE-mPEG2000 (F3) encapsulating BTZ were prepared and characterized in terms of their size, surface charge, drug loading, and release profile. Mannitol was used as a trapping agent to entrap the BTZ inside the liposomal core. The cytotoxicity and anti-tumor activity of formulations were investigated in vitro and in vivo in mice bearing tumor.

Background:

Bortezomib (BTZ) is an FDA approved proteasome inhibitor for the treatment of mantle cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma. The low solubility of BTZ has been responsible for the several side effects and low therapeutic efficacy of the drug. Encapsulating BTZ in a nano drug delivery system; helps overcome such issues. Among NDDSs, liposomes are promising diagnostic and therapeutic delivery vehicles in cancer treatment.

Objective:

Evaluating anti-tumor activity of bortezomib liposomal formulations.

Methods:

Data prompted us to design and develop three different liposomal formulations of BTZ based on Tm parameter, which determines liposomal stiffness. DPPC (Tm 41°C) and HSPC (Tm 55°C) lipids were chosen as variables associated with liposome rigidity. In vitro cytotoxicity assay was then carried out for the three designed liposomal formulations on C26 and B16F0, which are the colon and melanoma cancer mouse-cell lines, respectively. NIH 3T3 mouse embryonic fibroblast cell line was also used as a normal cell line. The therapeutic efficacy of these formulations was further assessed in mice tumor models.

Result:

MBTZ were successfully encapsulated into all the three liposomal formulations with a high entrapment efficacy of 60, 64, and 84% for F1, F2, and F3, respectively. The findings showed that liposomes mean particle diameter ranged from 103.4 to 146.8nm. In vitro cytotoxicity studies showed that liposomal-BTZ formulations had higher IC50 value in comparison to free BTZ. F2-liposomes with DPPC, having lower Tm of 41°C, showed much higher anti-tumor efficacy in mice models of C26 and B16F0 tumors compared to F3-HSPC liposomes with a Tm of 55°C. F2 formulation also enhanced mice survival compared with untreated groups, either in BALB/c or in C57BL/6 mice.

Conclusion:

Our findings indicated that F2-DPPC-liposomal formulations prepared with Tm close to body temperature seem to be effective in reducing the side effects and increasing the therapeutic efficacy of BTZ and merits further investigation.