The continuous improvement in patient care and recovery is driving the development of innovative materials for medical applications.Medical sutures,essential for securing implants and closing deep wounds,have evolved ...The continuous improvement in patient care and recovery is driving the development of innovative materials for medical applications.Medical sutures,essential for securing implants and closing deep wounds,have evolved to incorporate smart materials capable of responding to various stimuli.This study explores the potential of thermoresponsive sutures,made from shape memory materials,that contract upon heating to bring loose stitches closer together,promoting optimal wound closure.We developed nanocomposites based on a blend of poly(lactic acid)(PLA)and thermoplastic polyurethane(TPU)—biopolymers that inherently exhibit shape memory—enhanced with carbon nanotubes(CNT)and graphene nanoplatelets(GN)to improve mechanical performance.PLA/TPU(50/50)nanocomposites were prepared with 1 and 2 wt%GN,as well as hybrid formulations combining 1 wt%CNT with 1 or 2 wt%GN,using a twin-screw extrusion process to form filaments.These filaments were characterized through differential scanning calorimetry(DSC),field emission gun scanning electron microscopy(FEG-SEM),tensile testing,and shape memory assessments.While the PLA/TPU blend is immiscible,TPU enhances the crystallinity(X_(c))of the PLA phase,further increased by the addition of CNT and GN.FEG-SEM images indicate CNTs primarily in the PLA phase and GN in the TPU phase.PLA/TPU with 1 or 2 wt%GN showed the highest potential for suture applications,with a high elastic modulus(~1000 MPa),significant strain at break(~10%),and effective shape recovery(~20%at 55℃ for 30 min).These findings suggest that these nanocomposites can enhance suture performance with controlled shape recovery that is suitable for medical use.展开更多
Objectives:As the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy(DMD)is a progressive neuromuscular disorder frequently associated with cardiac dysfunction,this study aimed to evaluate the influence of beta-blocker therapy on cardiac au...Objectives:As the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy(DMD)is a progressive neuromuscular disorder frequently associated with cardiac dysfunction,this study aimed to evaluate the influence of beta-blocker therapy on cardiac autonomic modulation in adolescents withDMDby analyzing heart rate variability(HRV)indices in patients with and without betablockers.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted with 90 participants divided into three groups:(1)participants with DMD receiving beta-blocker therapy(DMDB,n=30),(2)participants with DMD without beta-blocker therapy(GMDM,n=30),and(3)age-and sex-matched typically developing participants(GDT,n=30).HRV was assessed using validated beat-to-beat heart rate monitoring(RS800CX,Polar)under controlled conditions.Linear and non-linear HRV indices(including Detrended Fluctuation Analysis and Symbolic Dynamics)were analysed using Kubios HRV software.Results:DMD patients exhibited autonomic impairment,characterized by decreased HRV,increased sympathetic dominance,and reduced parasympathetic modulation.Betablocker therapy was associated with significantly higher Mean Beat-to-beat interval(RR)and lower Mean Heart Rate(HR)compared to the non-beta-blocker DMD group,with values approaching those observed in typically developing participants.Non-linear indices suggested thatDMDpatients receiving beta-blockers demonstrated increased HRV complexity and fractal properties compared to those not receiving beta-blockers,although differences remained between the DMD and control groups.Conclusions:Autonomic dysfunction in DMD is characterized by reduced HRV and altered sympathovagal balance.In our results,beta-blocker therapy was associated with improved HRV and enhanced autonomic control.These findings highlight the potential cardioprotective role of betablockers in DMD management and emphasize the need for further research into optimizing autonomic function in DMD.展开更多
This study evaluates the development of a testing process for the automotive software domain, highlighting challenges stemming from the absence of adequate processes. The research demonstrates the application of Desig...This study evaluates the development of a testing process for the automotive software domain, highlighting challenges stemming from the absence of adequate processes. The research demonstrates the application of Design Science Research methodology in developing, an automotive software testing process—ProTSA, using six functional testing modules. Additionally, the study evaluates the benefits of implementing ProTSA in a specific Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) using an experimental single-case approach with industry professionals’ participation through a survey. The study concludes that combining testing techniques with effective communication and alignment is crucial for enhancing software quality. Furthermore, survey data indicates that implementing ProTSA leads to productivity gains by initiating tests early, resulting in time savings in the testing program and increased productivity for the testing team. Future work will explore implementing ProTSA in cybersecurity, over-the-air software updates, and autonomous vehicle testing processes. .展开更多
During the production of nitrile rubber, significant amounts of nitrogen in the form of ammonium are generated in the wastewater. The discharge of this high-nitrogen wastewater can lead to serious environmental issues...During the production of nitrile rubber, significant amounts of nitrogen in the form of ammonium are generated in the wastewater. The discharge of this high-nitrogen wastewater can lead to serious environmental issues, including eutrophication, disruption of aquatic ecosystems, and groundwater contamination. To mitigate these impacts, this research explored the bioremediation capabilities of the macroalgae Ulva lactuca (Chlorophyta) for removing nitrogen from nitrile rubber production wastewater. The study employed single-phase and Michaelis-Menten decay models based on ammonium consumption, using various dilutions of wastewater to identify the optimal concentration for treatment. The physiological state of the macroalgae was monitored by measuring the photosynthetic capacity and specific growth rate during the experiments. In the presence of U. lactuca, ammonium concentrations decreased in all treatment groups, confirming that the ammonium kinetics conformed to both applied models. Our results show that U. lactuca effectively reduces ammonium concentrations, with an approximate removal rate of 0.020 µM·g−1·min−1 across different wastewater concentrations (70%, 80%, 90%, and 100%). Notably, the treatments with 70%, 80%, and 90% wastewater strength achieved about 67% reduction in ammonium, demonstrating the alga’s capacity to treat high-nitrogen wastewater. The photosynthetic performance of U. lactuca initially declined in control conditions but stabilized across all treatments, highlighting its adaptability. The kinetic analysis using the Michaelis-Menten model indicated a Vmax of 1342 μM·g−1·DMh−1, suggesting a robust capacity for ammonium uptake when fully saturated. Our study underscores the potential of Ulva lactuca as a cost-effective and efficient agent for wastewater bioremediation, particularly in settings with high nitrogen loads.展开更多
Retroviruses have been proven to cause infections and diseases in a series of mammalian hosts but not in dogs.Then,this letter discussed the dog susceptibility to retrovirus infection,encompassing arguments to underst...Retroviruses have been proven to cause infections and diseases in a series of mammalian hosts but not in dogs.Then,this letter discussed the dog susceptibility to retrovirus infection,encompassing arguments to understand why dogs may have not been infected by retroviruses thus far.The potential resistance of retrovirus in dogs enables this provocative short communication to discuss this question,looking at some evolutive aspects.The lineage of canids has shown,throughout its evolutionary history,a smaller accumulation of retroviruses in canid genomes,classifed as endogenous retroviruses.In this context,the genomes of canids seem to ofer obstacles,which have been evolutionarily conserved,in the face of retroviral infection.展开更多
Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)(PHB)is a biothechnological and biodegradable thermoplastic polymer from the polyhydroxyalkanoates(PHAs)family,whose chain regularity,high molecular weight,and physical and mechanical properties...Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)(PHB)is a biothechnological and biodegradable thermoplastic polymer from the polyhydroxyalkanoates(PHAs)family,whose chain regularity,high molecular weight,and physical and mechanical properties comparable to polypropylene(PP)are characteristics that have made PHB a prominent commercial bioplastic.Nevertheless,its susceptibility to thermal degradation and hydrolysis has limited many applications.To address the challenges associated with processing,a random copolymer of 95.86 mol%3-hydroxybutyrate and 4.14 mol%3-hydroxyvalerate(referred as PHB)was compounded without(neat PHB)and with 0.25,0.5,1,and 1.5 wt%of chain extender(Joncryl■ADR 4368),consisting of multifunctional epoxy groups,and melt mixed in an internal mixer at 170℃,50 rpm,and residence times of 5,10,and 15 min.The effect of chain extender concentration and residence time on the effectiveness of Joncryl■ADR 4368 to recover the pristine PHB properties were investigated through torque rheometry,melt flow index(MFI),differential scanning calorimetry(DSC),tensile testing,and thermogravimetric analysis.The results indicated that an increase in residence time strongly influenced the prevalence of thermomechanical degradation reactions over chain extension reactions of PHB during processing in the molten state.Shorter residence times favored chain extension,while longer times favored chain scission.This trend led to no enhancement of PHB mechanical properties processed for 10 and 15 min,regardless of additive content used.Melt flow index,thermogravimetric analysis and tensile strength exhibited an asymptotic behavior with the increase in additive concentration,exhibiting a noteworthy improvement in tensile strength and temperature at the highest rate of thermal degradation(TMAX),and a decrease in melt flow index of neat PHB with only 0.25 wt%of additive mixed for 5 min.The results found in this work allow additional data for processing PHB by manipulating the ratios of multifunctional chain extender and mixing time,which can create new approach in various applications.展开更多
For more than two decades, immunologists have been using the so-called Th1/Th2 paradigm to explain most of the phenomena related to adaptive immunity. The Thl/Th2 paradigm implied the existence of two different, mutu-...For more than two decades, immunologists have been using the so-called Th1/Th2 paradigm to explain most of the phenomena related to adaptive immunity. The Thl/Th2 paradigm implied the existence of two different, mutu- ally regulated, CD4＋ T helper subsets： Thl cells, driving cell-mediated immune responses involved in tissue damage and fighting infection against intracellular parasites; and Th2 cells that mediate IgE production and are particu- larly involved in eosinophilic inflammation, allergy and clearance of helminthic infections. A third member of the T helper set, IL-17-producing CD4＋ T cells, now called Th17 cells, was recently described as a distinct lineage that does not share developmental pathways with either Thl or Th2 cells. The Th17 subset has been linked to autoimmune disorders, being able to produce IL-17, IL-17F and IL-21 among other inflammatory cytokines. Interestingly, it has been reported that there is not only a cross-regulation among Thl, Th2 and Th17 effector cells but there is also a di- chotomy in the generation of Th17 and T regulatory cells. Therefore, Treg and Th17 effector cells arise in a mutually exclusive fashion, depending on whether they are activated in the presence of TGF-β or TGF-β plus inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6. This review will address the discovery of the Th17 cells, and recent progress on their development and regulation.展开更多
Pterygium is a benign lesion usually growing from the nasal side of the conjunctiva onto the cornea.Most cases of pterygium does not cause problem or requires specific treatment.The exact cause of pterygium is not cle...Pterygium is a benign lesion usually growing from the nasal side of the conjunctiva onto the cornea.Most cases of pterygium does not cause problem or requires specific treatment.The exact cause of pterygium is not clear yet,but some factors are pointed as causes,being the most important the long-term ultraviolet ray exposure.Pterygium surgery is usually considered when there are symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatment.Recurrence is the main complication of the surgery,and much has been done to avoid it.Mitomycin C（MMC） has been used as a fibroblast proliferation inhibitor during the surgery to reduce the chance of recurrence of the pterygium.This review describes the use of MMC as an adjunctive,the optimal dosage,the duration of administration of MMC and possible complications,when used during,after and before the surgery.Most studies suggest that increased exposure（dose or duration） of MMC is associated with a lower recurrence,but with higher risks of complications.展开更多
AIM: To investigate effects of severe burn injury(BI) in rat liver through the histopathological and inflammatory markers analysis. METHODS: Forty-two male Wistar rats were distributed into two groups, control(C) and ...AIM: To investigate effects of severe burn injury(BI) in rat liver through the histopathological and inflammatory markers analysis. METHODS: Forty-two male Wistar rats were distributed into two groups, control(C) and subjected to scald BI(SBI). The animals were euthanized one, four and 14 d post sham or 45% of the total body surface BI. Liver fragments were submitted to histopathological, morphoquantitative(hepatocyte area and cell density), ciclooxigenase-2(COX-2) immunoexpression, and gene expression [real-time polymerase chain reaction for tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase(i NOS) and caspase-3] methods. RESULTS: Histopathological findings showed inflammatory process in all periods investigated and hepatocyte degeneration added to increased amount of connective tissue 14 d post injury. Hepatocyte area, the density of binucleated hepatocytes and density of sinusoidal cells of SBI groups were increased when compared with control. COX-2 immunoexpression was stronger in SBI groups. No differences were found in TNF-α, i NOS and caspase-3 gene expression. CONCLUSION: BI induces histopathological changes, upregulation of COX-2 immunoexpression, and cell proliferation in liver of rats.展开更多
Background: The activities carried out by soldiers in the army involve great physical demands and require intense trainings to perform combat-specific tasks. Musculoskeletal injury is a potential threat to the health ...Background: The activities carried out by soldiers in the army involve great physical demands and require intense trainings to perform combat-specific tasks. Musculoskeletal injury is a potential threat to the health and physical integrity of the soldier. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of lower limb musculoskeletal injuries among soldiers and to propose a training protocol to prevent the most frequent injuries.Methods: This observational(cross-sectional) study recruited a sample of 103 soldiers who required medical attention,from a total 202 new battalion soldiers. The medical records(paper and online) had a form of running text. All data collected were recorded by the registered physicians of the battalion medical post. The records were analyzed by the following variables: medical diagnosis, injury site, mechanism, type of treatment, time loss, existence of previous injury,and recurring injury.Results: A total of 112 musculoskeletal injuries were diagnosed in 71 soldiers, and other types of diseases/injuries were diagnosed in the other soldiers. Joint pain accounted for 55.4% of the diagnoses. The knee was the most affected site, while trauma and overload were the most common mechanisms of injury. Drug treatment was used most frequently, accounting for 58% of the cases. The majority of the sample obtained a temporary leave of absence for1 to 6 days or not at all. Previous injuries and recurrence were not presented as risk factors for injury. With the data received, a protocol for the prevention of injuries to the lower limbs was proposed.Conclusions: This study indicated that the most frequent site of injury is the knee, and joint pain is the most common diagnosis. These results may support the necessity to develop a neuromuscular training protocol to prevent lower limb injuries, which we suggest to be applied in future studies.展开更多
The kallikrein-kinin system(KKS) is an intricate endogenous pathway involved in several physiological and pathological cascades in the brain. Due to the pathological effects of kinins in blood vessels and tissues, the...The kallikrein-kinin system(KKS) is an intricate endogenous pathway involved in several physiological and pathological cascades in the brain. Due to the pathological effects of kinins in blood vessels and tissues, their formation and degradation are tightly controlled. Their components have been related to several central nervous system diseases such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and others. Bradykinin and its receptors(B1R and B2R) may have a role in the pathophysiology of certain central nervous system diseases. It has been suggested that kinin B1R is up-regulated in pathological conditions and has a neurodegenerative pattern, while kinin B2R is constitutive and can act as a neuroprotective factor in many neurological conditions. The renin angiotensin system(RAS) is an important blood pressure regulator and controls both sodium and water intake. AngⅡ is a potent vasoconstrictor molecule and angiotensin converting enzyme is the major enzyme responsible for its release. AngⅡ acts mainly on the AT1 receptor, with involvement in several systemic and neurological disorders. Brain RAS has been associated with physiological pathways, but is also associated with brain disorders. This review describes topics relating to the involvement of both systems in several forms of brain dysfunction and indicates components of the KKS and RAS that have been used as targets in several pharmacological approaches.展开更多
Pregnancy is a period of major transformations in a woman’s life;increased stress,and mood and sleep disorders are frequent.This review evaluates mindfulness interventions during pregnancy and their ability to help m...Pregnancy is a period of major transformations in a woman’s life;increased stress,and mood and sleep disorders are frequent.This review evaluates mindfulness interventions during pregnancy and their ability to help manage stress,anxiety,depression,emotional regulation,level of mindfulness and sleep quality.A search of English language scientific literature relevant to mindfulness interventions for pregnant women was conducted using PubMed,Scopus and Web of Science,without restriction on publication date.Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials with pregnant women,using mindfulness as an intervention for at least three weeks,in one of our main areas of interest,and using only validated scales to measure outcomes.Two hundred and thirty studies were identified in our searches of research databases,and thirteen were included in our analysis.We found a large diversity of mindfulness programs,heterogeneity among the instruments used to evaluate outcomes,and inconsistency in the gestational periods used in the studies.Mindfulness interventions were beneficial for stress,anxiety and depression.Mindfulness was also effective when applied in pregnant women with a history of depression or experiencing depression.Considering emotional regulation and the level of mindfulness,there were signs of improvement,but more studies are needed.None of the studies evaluated sleep quality.Our review provides information about current mindfulness programs,an overview of the effects of mindfulness interventions,a description of the measurements used so far,and recommendations for developing highquality mindfulness protocols for pregnant women.展开更多
Aphasic syndromes usually result from injuries to the dominant hemisphere of the brain. Despite the fact that localization of language functions shows little interindividual variability, several brain areas are simult...Aphasic syndromes usually result from injuries to the dominant hemisphere of the brain. Despite the fact that localization of language functions shows little interindividual variability, several brain areas are simultaneously activated when language tasks are undertaken. Mechanisms of language recovery after brain injury to the dominant hemisphere seem to be relatively stereotyped, including activations of perilesional areas in the acute phase and of homologues of language areas in the non-dominant hemisphere in the subacute phase, later returning to dominant hemisphere activation in the chronic phase. Plasticity mechanisms reopen the critical period of language development, more specifically in what leads to disinhibition of the non-dominant hemisphere when brain lesions affect the dominant hemisphere. The non-dominant hemisphere plays an important role during recovery from aphasia, but currently available rehabilitation therapies have shown limited results for efficient language improvement. Large-scale randomized controlled trials that evaluate well-defined interventions in patients with aphasia are needed for stimulation of neuroplasticity mechanisms that enhance the role of the non-dominant hemisphere for language recovery. Ineffective treatment approaches should be replaced by more promising ones and the latter should be evaluated for proper application. The data generated by such studies could substantiate evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for patients with aphasia.展开更多
Objective: Although Angelica archangelica is a medicinal and aromatic plant with a long history of use for both medicinal and food purposes, there are no studies regarding the antineoplastic activity of its root.This ...Objective: Although Angelica archangelica is a medicinal and aromatic plant with a long history of use for both medicinal and food purposes, there are no studies regarding the antineoplastic activity of its root.This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and antitumor effects of the crude extract of A. archangelica root(CEAA) on breast cancer.Methods: The cytotoxicity of CEAA against breast adenocarcinoma cells(4T1 and MCF-7) was evaluated by a 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide(MTT) assay. Morphological and biochemical changes were detected by Hoechst 33342/propidium iodide(PI) and annexin V/PI staining. Cytosolic calcium mobilization was evaluated in cells staining with FURA-4 NW. Immunoblotting was used to determine the effect of CEAA on anti-and pro-apoptotic proteins(Bcl-2 and Bax, respectively).The 4 T1 cell-challenged mice were used for in vivo assay.Results: Using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis, angelicin, a constituent of the roots and leaves of A. archangelica, was found to be the major constituent of the CEAA evaluated in this study(73 mg/mL). The CEAA was cytotoxic for both breast cancer cell lines studied but not for human fibroblasts. Treatment of 4 T1 cells with the CEAA increased Bax protein levels accompanied by decreased Bcl-2 expression, in the presence of cleaved caspase-3 and cytosolic calcium mobilization, suggesting mitochondrial involvement in breast cancer cell death induced by the CEAA in this cell line. No changes on the Bcl-2/Bax ratio were observed in CEAA-treated MCF7 cells. Gavage administration of the CEAA(500 mg/kg) to 4T1 cell-challenged mice significantly decreased tumor growth when compared with untreated animals.Conclusion: Altogether, our data show the antitumor potential of the CEAA against breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Further research is necessary to better elucidate the pharmacological application of the CEAA in breast cancer therapy.展开更多
Laminin is a glycoprotein which has an important role in the mechanism of fibrogenesis and is,thus,related to hepatic fibrosis in addition to presenting increased levels in several types of neoplasias. However,its det...Laminin is a glycoprotein which has an important role in the mechanism of fibrogenesis and is,thus,related to hepatic fibrosis in addition to presenting increased levels in several types of neoplasias. However,its determination is not routinely considered in the study of hepatic fibrosis. In this review,the authors critically comment on the role of this glycoprotein compared to other markers of fibrosis through non-invasive procedures(Fibroscan). They also consider its clinical investigational potential and believe that the continuation of these investigations might contribute to a better understanding of the fibrogenic mechanism,which could in turn either lead to the identification of patients at risk of developing fibrosis non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH) or at least be used as an indicator for hepatic biopsy in such patients. Finally,the authors believe that serum laminin determination might contribute to the diagnosis of epithelial tumor metastasis and peritoneal carcinomatosis.展开更多
Objectives: To verify the prevalence of E6/E7 RNAm expression of HPV in patients with negative cervicovaginal cytology, ASC-US and LSIL;to correlate with negative anatomopathological exams and/or squamous intraepithel...Objectives: To verify the prevalence of E6/E7 RNAm expression of HPV in patients with negative cervicovaginal cytology, ASC-US and LSIL;to correlate with negative anatomopathological exams and/or squamous intraepithelial neoplasy grade I (SIN 1) of the lower genital tract (LGT);to relate the RNAm expression with viral infection types;to assess the genotyping in single infections. Methods: Findings from 825 women submitted to E6/E7 RNAm survey and 422 women submitted to LGT biopsies were analyzed. Results: A larger percentage of E6/E7 in ASC-US and LSIL cytologies occurred. Negative results of RNAm expression were in accordance with negative cytologies and negative anatomopathological exam. In positive cases, the infection by a single HPV type was most prevalent, with the type 16 being the most common. Conclusions: the expression of mRNA was most prevalent in ASC-US and LSIL cytologies, comparing with the negative ones. The findings of SIN 1 biopsies were related to the positive expression of mRNA and negative cytologies;the negative expression was in agreement with negative anatomopathological exam. The infection by a HPV type was more frequent in cases of positive expression, the HPV type 16 being most frequently found. Patients with low grade intraepithelial lesion cytologies had a higher percentage of multiple infections.展开更多
The H2-receptor antagonist cimetidine is an antiulcer drug also used for the treatment of cancer due to its antiangiogenic effect. However, this drug has caused structural changes in the seminiferous tubules. Vitamin ...The H2-receptor antagonist cimetidine is an antiulcer drug also used for the treatment of cancer due to its antiangiogenic effect. However, this drug has caused structural changes in the seminiferous tubules. Vitamin B12 has been used as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of male infertility. The supplementation of rats with vitamin B12 during cimetidine treatment has recovered the damaged seminiferous tubules, but how this vitamin restores the seminiferous epithelium has not been clarified. In this study, we evaluated whether vitamin B12 improves the number of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and sperm concentration in cimetidine-treated rats. Adult male rats were treated for 50 days as follows： cimetidine group received 100 mg kg^-1 b.w. of cimetidine, cimetidine-B12 group received cimetidine and 3 μg of vitamin B12-hydroxocobalamin, B12 group received only 3 μg of vitamin, and control group received saline. Sperm concentration was calculated and historesin-embedded testes sections were used for the quantitative analyses of spermatogonia （A; In/B） and spermatocytes. TUNEL method and PCNA immunofluorescence were performed. Cimetidine caused a significant reduction in sperm concentration. TUNEL-positive spermatogonia and spermatocytes were correlated to a significant reduction in the number of these cells. In cimetidine-B12 group, sperm concentration was higher than cimetidine group and a significant increase in the number of spermatogonia （stages Ⅱ-Ⅵ） was correlated to a high incidence of PCNA-immunolabeled spermatogonia and spermatocytes. The results show that the supplementation of rats with vitamin B12 during cimetidine treatment increases sperm concentration and exerts a potential effect in the recovery of spermatogonia and spermatocytes.展开更多
Weather events put human lives at risk mostly when people might occupy areas susceptible to natural disasters.Deploying Professional Weather Stations(PWS)in vulnerable areas is key for monitoring weather with reliable...Weather events put human lives at risk mostly when people might occupy areas susceptible to natural disasters.Deploying Professional Weather Stations(PWS)in vulnerable areas is key for monitoring weather with reliable measurements.However,such professional instrumentation is notably expensive while remote sensing from a number of stations is paramount.This imposes challenges on the large-scale weather station deployment for broad monitoring from large observation networks such as in Cemaden—The Brazilian National Center for Monitoring and Early Warning of Natural Disasters.In this context,in this paper,we propose a Low-Cost Automatic Weather Station(LCAWS)system developed from Commercial Off-The-Shelf(COTS)and open-source Internet of Things(IoT)technologies,which provides measurements as reliable as a reference PWS for natural disaster monitoring.When being automatic,LCAWS is a stand-alone photovoltaic system connected wirelessly to the Internet in order to provide real-time reliable end-to-end weather measurements.To achieve data reliability,we propose an intelligent sensor calibration method to correct measures.From a 30-day uninterrupted observation with sampling in minute resolution,we show that the calibrated LCAWS sensors have no statistically significant differences from the PWS measurements.As such,LCAWS has opened opportunities for reducing maintenance costs in Cemaden's observational network.展开更多
Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) is involved with hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. However, the association of RAS components to cancer still causes suspicion. To try to clarify this, here we aimed to sho...Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) is involved with hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. However, the association of RAS components to cancer still causes suspicion. To try to clarify this, here we aimed to show this association for three important components: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 1 (ACE1), Angiotensin Type 1 Receptor (AGTR1) and Angiotensin Type 2 Receptor (AGTR2). The first articles show that association of RAS components with cancer dates back to the 70’s. ECA1 and AGTR1 have close association with cancer and ACE1 inhibitors or AGTR1 blockers are candidates to treatment of some tumors. Moreover, the action of AGTR2 is still controversial, but most studies show that the increased expression of AGTR2 can attack the cancer cells. In breast cancer, these components have also been widely studied and many works have shown that the correlation exists. Therefore specific target using these RAS components could be a beneficial, novel therapy to various tumors.展开更多
This work aimed the incorporation of the enzyme bromelain from pineapple peel into dermatological bases for potential therapeutic application. The enzyme was incorporated into Lanette cream and lotion, as well as Carb...This work aimed the incorporation of the enzyme bromelain from pineapple peel into dermatological bases for potential therapeutic application. The enzyme was incorporated into Lanette cream and lotion, as well as Carbopol gel and Chemyunion cream and lotion, at a concentration of 0.5% （w/w）. These bases were subjected to centrifugation test and accelerated stability test during 90 days at 25 ℃（with and without sunlight）, 37 ℃ and 4 ℃, in order to evaluate bromelain stability in dermatological bases. Total protein content and enzymatic activity were measured. The bases were stable as its organoleptic characteristics （appearance, color, smell and sensitivity to touch） only when kept at 4 ℃ with activity remaining 95.5%, 84,9%. 77.7%, 73.8% and 72.3%, alter 90 days of testing in Carbopol gel, Lanette and Chemyunion cream, and Lanette and Chemyunion lotion, respectively. Based on the results, it was possible to incorporate bromelain into dermatological bases, and the activity was well preserved when these bases were kept in refrigerator at 4 ℃.展开更多
基金This study was financed in part by the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoalde Nível Superior-Brasil(CAPES)-Finance Code 001.
文摘The continuous improvement in patient care and recovery is driving the development of innovative materials for medical applications.Medical sutures,essential for securing implants and closing deep wounds,have evolved to incorporate smart materials capable of responding to various stimuli.This study explores the potential of thermoresponsive sutures,made from shape memory materials,that contract upon heating to bring loose stitches closer together,promoting optimal wound closure.We developed nanocomposites based on a blend of poly(lactic acid)(PLA)and thermoplastic polyurethane(TPU)—biopolymers that inherently exhibit shape memory—enhanced with carbon nanotubes(CNT)and graphene nanoplatelets(GN)to improve mechanical performance.PLA/TPU(50/50)nanocomposites were prepared with 1 and 2 wt%GN,as well as hybrid formulations combining 1 wt%CNT with 1 or 2 wt%GN,using a twin-screw extrusion process to form filaments.These filaments were characterized through differential scanning calorimetry(DSC),field emission gun scanning electron microscopy(FEG-SEM),tensile testing,and shape memory assessments.While the PLA/TPU blend is immiscible,TPU enhances the crystallinity(X_(c))of the PLA phase,further increased by the addition of CNT and GN.FEG-SEM images indicate CNTs primarily in the PLA phase and GN in the TPU phase.PLA/TPU with 1 or 2 wt%GN showed the highest potential for suture applications,with a high elastic modulus(~1000 MPa),significant strain at break(~10%),and effective shape recovery(~20%at 55℃ for 30 min).These findings suggest that these nanocomposites can enhance suture performance with controlled shape recovery that is suitable for medical use.
文摘Objectives:As the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy(DMD)is a progressive neuromuscular disorder frequently associated with cardiac dysfunction,this study aimed to evaluate the influence of beta-blocker therapy on cardiac autonomic modulation in adolescents withDMDby analyzing heart rate variability(HRV)indices in patients with and without betablockers.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted with 90 participants divided into three groups:(1)participants with DMD receiving beta-blocker therapy(DMDB,n=30),(2)participants with DMD without beta-blocker therapy(GMDM,n=30),and(3)age-and sex-matched typically developing participants(GDT,n=30).HRV was assessed using validated beat-to-beat heart rate monitoring(RS800CX,Polar)under controlled conditions.Linear and non-linear HRV indices(including Detrended Fluctuation Analysis and Symbolic Dynamics)were analysed using Kubios HRV software.Results:DMD patients exhibited autonomic impairment,characterized by decreased HRV,increased sympathetic dominance,and reduced parasympathetic modulation.Betablocker therapy was associated with significantly higher Mean Beat-to-beat interval(RR)and lower Mean Heart Rate(HR)compared to the non-beta-blocker DMD group,with values approaching those observed in typically developing participants.Non-linear indices suggested thatDMDpatients receiving beta-blockers demonstrated increased HRV complexity and fractal properties compared to those not receiving beta-blockers,although differences remained between the DMD and control groups.Conclusions:Autonomic dysfunction in DMD is characterized by reduced HRV and altered sympathovagal balance.In our results,beta-blocker therapy was associated with improved HRV and enhanced autonomic control.These findings highlight the potential cardioprotective role of betablockers in DMD management and emphasize the need for further research into optimizing autonomic function in DMD.
文摘This study evaluates the development of a testing process for the automotive software domain, highlighting challenges stemming from the absence of adequate processes. The research demonstrates the application of Design Science Research methodology in developing, an automotive software testing process—ProTSA, using six functional testing modules. Additionally, the study evaluates the benefits of implementing ProTSA in a specific Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) using an experimental single-case approach with industry professionals’ participation through a survey. The study concludes that combining testing techniques with effective communication and alignment is crucial for enhancing software quality. Furthermore, survey data indicates that implementing ProTSA leads to productivity gains by initiating tests early, resulting in time savings in the testing program and increased productivity for the testing team. Future work will explore implementing ProTSA in cybersecurity, over-the-air software updates, and autonomous vehicle testing processes. .
文摘During the production of nitrile rubber, significant amounts of nitrogen in the form of ammonium are generated in the wastewater. The discharge of this high-nitrogen wastewater can lead to serious environmental issues, including eutrophication, disruption of aquatic ecosystems, and groundwater contamination. To mitigate these impacts, this research explored the bioremediation capabilities of the macroalgae Ulva lactuca (Chlorophyta) for removing nitrogen from nitrile rubber production wastewater. The study employed single-phase and Michaelis-Menten decay models based on ammonium consumption, using various dilutions of wastewater to identify the optimal concentration for treatment. The physiological state of the macroalgae was monitored by measuring the photosynthetic capacity and specific growth rate during the experiments. In the presence of U. lactuca, ammonium concentrations decreased in all treatment groups, confirming that the ammonium kinetics conformed to both applied models. Our results show that U. lactuca effectively reduces ammonium concentrations, with an approximate removal rate of 0.020 µM·g−1·min−1 across different wastewater concentrations (70%, 80%, 90%, and 100%). Notably, the treatments with 70%, 80%, and 90% wastewater strength achieved about 67% reduction in ammonium, demonstrating the alga’s capacity to treat high-nitrogen wastewater. The photosynthetic performance of U. lactuca initially declined in control conditions but stabilized across all treatments, highlighting its adaptability. The kinetic analysis using the Michaelis-Menten model indicated a Vmax of 1342 μM·g−1·DMh−1, suggesting a robust capacity for ammonium uptake when fully saturated. Our study underscores the potential of Ulva lactuca as a cost-effective and efficient agent for wastewater bioremediation, particularly in settings with high nitrogen loads.
基金Fapesp 2014/22827–7Ministério da Saúde do BrasilFundação Faculdade de Medicina and CNPq Grant to JC:301275/2019–0.
文摘Retroviruses have been proven to cause infections and diseases in a series of mammalian hosts but not in dogs.Then,this letter discussed the dog susceptibility to retrovirus infection,encompassing arguments to understand why dogs may have not been infected by retroviruses thus far.The potential resistance of retrovirus in dogs enables this provocative short communication to discuss this question,looking at some evolutive aspects.The lineage of canids has shown,throughout its evolutionary history,a smaller accumulation of retroviruses in canid genomes,classifed as endogenous retroviruses.In this context,the genomes of canids seem to ofer obstacles,which have been evolutionarily conserved,in the face of retroviral infection.
基金The research described in this manuscript received funding from National Foundation for Scientific and Technological Development,CNPq(grant numbers:405428/2022-7 and 406925/2022-4).
文摘Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)(PHB)is a biothechnological and biodegradable thermoplastic polymer from the polyhydroxyalkanoates(PHAs)family,whose chain regularity,high molecular weight,and physical and mechanical properties comparable to polypropylene(PP)are characteristics that have made PHB a prominent commercial bioplastic.Nevertheless,its susceptibility to thermal degradation and hydrolysis has limited many applications.To address the challenges associated with processing,a random copolymer of 95.86 mol%3-hydroxybutyrate and 4.14 mol%3-hydroxyvalerate(referred as PHB)was compounded without(neat PHB)and with 0.25,0.5,1,and 1.5 wt%of chain extender(Joncryl■ADR 4368),consisting of multifunctional epoxy groups,and melt mixed in an internal mixer at 170℃,50 rpm,and residence times of 5,10,and 15 min.The effect of chain extender concentration and residence time on the effectiveness of Joncryl■ADR 4368 to recover the pristine PHB properties were investigated through torque rheometry,melt flow index(MFI),differential scanning calorimetry(DSC),tensile testing,and thermogravimetric analysis.The results indicated that an increase in residence time strongly influenced the prevalence of thermomechanical degradation reactions over chain extension reactions of PHB during processing in the molten state.Shorter residence times favored chain extension,while longer times favored chain scission.This trend led to no enhancement of PHB mechanical properties processed for 10 and 15 min,regardless of additive content used.Melt flow index,thermogravimetric analysis and tensile strength exhibited an asymptotic behavior with the increase in additive concentration,exhibiting a noteworthy improvement in tensile strength and temperature at the highest rate of thermal degradation(TMAX),and a decrease in melt flow index of neat PHB with only 0.25 wt%of additive mixed for 5 min.The results found in this work allow additional data for processing PHB by manipulating the ratios of multifunctional chain extender and mixing time,which can create new approach in various applications.
文摘For more than two decades, immunologists have been using the so-called Th1/Th2 paradigm to explain most of the phenomena related to adaptive immunity. The Thl/Th2 paradigm implied the existence of two different, mutu- ally regulated, CD4＋ T helper subsets： Thl cells, driving cell-mediated immune responses involved in tissue damage and fighting infection against intracellular parasites; and Th2 cells that mediate IgE production and are particu- larly involved in eosinophilic inflammation, allergy and clearance of helminthic infections. A third member of the T helper set, IL-17-producing CD4＋ T cells, now called Th17 cells, was recently described as a distinct lineage that does not share developmental pathways with either Thl or Th2 cells. The Th17 subset has been linked to autoimmune disorders, being able to produce IL-17, IL-17F and IL-21 among other inflammatory cytokines. Interestingly, it has been reported that there is not only a cross-regulation among Thl, Th2 and Th17 effector cells but there is also a di- chotomy in the generation of Th17 and T regulatory cells. Therefore, Treg and Th17 effector cells arise in a mutually exclusive fashion, depending on whether they are activated in the presence of TGF-β or TGF-β plus inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6. This review will address the discovery of the Th17 cells, and recent progress on their development and regulation.
文摘Pterygium is a benign lesion usually growing from the nasal side of the conjunctiva onto the cornea.Most cases of pterygium does not cause problem or requires specific treatment.The exact cause of pterygium is not clear yet,but some factors are pointed as causes,being the most important the long-term ultraviolet ray exposure.Pterygium surgery is usually considered when there are symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatment.Recurrence is the main complication of the surgery,and much has been done to avoid it.Mitomycin C（MMC） has been used as a fibroblast proliferation inhibitor during the surgery to reduce the chance of recurrence of the pterygium.This review describes the use of MMC as an adjunctive,the optimal dosage,the duration of administration of MMC and possible complications,when used during,after and before the surgery.Most studies suggest that increased exposure（dose or duration） of MMC is associated with a lower recurrence,but with higher risks of complications.
基金Sao Paulo Research Foundation,FAPESP,No.11/22034-9
文摘AIM: To investigate effects of severe burn injury(BI) in rat liver through the histopathological and inflammatory markers analysis. METHODS: Forty-two male Wistar rats were distributed into two groups, control(C) and subjected to scald BI(SBI). The animals were euthanized one, four and 14 d post sham or 45% of the total body surface BI. Liver fragments were submitted to histopathological, morphoquantitative(hepatocyte area and cell density), ciclooxigenase-2(COX-2) immunoexpression, and gene expression [real-time polymerase chain reaction for tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase(i NOS) and caspase-3] methods. RESULTS: Histopathological findings showed inflammatory process in all periods investigated and hepatocyte degeneration added to increased amount of connective tissue 14 d post injury. Hepatocyte area, the density of binucleated hepatocytes and density of sinusoidal cells of SBI groups were increased when compared with control. COX-2 immunoexpression was stronger in SBI groups. No differences were found in TNF-α, i NOS and caspase-3 gene expression. CONCLUSION: BI induces histopathological changes, upregulation of COX-2 immunoexpression, and cell proliferation in liver of rats.
基金funded by the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Level(CAPES)scholarship
文摘Background: The activities carried out by soldiers in the army involve great physical demands and require intense trainings to perform combat-specific tasks. Musculoskeletal injury is a potential threat to the health and physical integrity of the soldier. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of lower limb musculoskeletal injuries among soldiers and to propose a training protocol to prevent the most frequent injuries.Methods: This observational(cross-sectional) study recruited a sample of 103 soldiers who required medical attention,from a total 202 new battalion soldiers. The medical records(paper and online) had a form of running text. All data collected were recorded by the registered physicians of the battalion medical post. The records were analyzed by the following variables: medical diagnosis, injury site, mechanism, type of treatment, time loss, existence of previous injury,and recurring injury.Results: A total of 112 musculoskeletal injuries were diagnosed in 71 soldiers, and other types of diseases/injuries were diagnosed in the other soldiers. Joint pain accounted for 55.4% of the diagnoses. The knee was the most affected site, while trauma and overload were the most common mechanisms of injury. Drug treatment was used most frequently, accounting for 58% of the cases. The majority of the sample obtained a temporary leave of absence for1 to 6 days or not at all. Previous injuries and recurrence were not presented as risk factors for injury. With the data received, a protocol for the prevention of injuries to the lower limbs was proposed.Conclusions: This study indicated that the most frequent site of injury is the knee, and joint pain is the most common diagnosis. These results may support the necessity to develop a neuromuscular training protocol to prevent lower limb injuries, which we suggest to be applied in future studies.
基金Supported by Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico(CNPq),Funda o de AmparoàPesquisa do Estado de S o Paulo(FAPESP)and Instituto Nacional de Neurociência Translacional(INNT),Programa de Núcleos de Excelência(PRONEX)(Brazil)
文摘The kallikrein-kinin system(KKS) is an intricate endogenous pathway involved in several physiological and pathological cascades in the brain. Due to the pathological effects of kinins in blood vessels and tissues, their formation and degradation are tightly controlled. Their components have been related to several central nervous system diseases such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and others. Bradykinin and its receptors(B1R and B2R) may have a role in the pathophysiology of certain central nervous system diseases. It has been suggested that kinin B1R is up-regulated in pathological conditions and has a neurodegenerative pattern, while kinin B2R is constitutive and can act as a neuroprotective factor in many neurological conditions. The renin angiotensin system(RAS) is an important blood pressure regulator and controls both sodium and water intake. AngⅡ is a potent vasoconstrictor molecule and angiotensin converting enzyme is the major enzyme responsible for its release. AngⅡ acts mainly on the AT1 receptor, with involvement in several systemic and neurological disorders. Brain RAS has been associated with physiological pathways, but is also associated with brain disorders. This review describes topics relating to the involvement of both systems in several forms of brain dysfunction and indicates components of the KKS and RAS that have been used as targets in several pharmacological approaches.
基金supported by Associacao Fundo de Incentivo a Pesquisa(AFIP),Brazil,Coordenacao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior(CAPES-Finance Code 001),BrazilConselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico(CNPq-LL,MLA,ST and HH are recipients of CNPq fellowships),BrazilSao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP#2014/18722-5 to CF),Brazil。
文摘Pregnancy is a period of major transformations in a woman’s life;increased stress,and mood and sleep disorders are frequent.This review evaluates mindfulness interventions during pregnancy and their ability to help manage stress,anxiety,depression,emotional regulation,level of mindfulness and sleep quality.A search of English language scientific literature relevant to mindfulness interventions for pregnant women was conducted using PubMed,Scopus and Web of Science,without restriction on publication date.Inclusion criteria were randomized clinical trials with pregnant women,using mindfulness as an intervention for at least three weeks,in one of our main areas of interest,and using only validated scales to measure outcomes.Two hundred and thirty studies were identified in our searches of research databases,and thirteen were included in our analysis.We found a large diversity of mindfulness programs,heterogeneity among the instruments used to evaluate outcomes,and inconsistency in the gestational periods used in the studies.Mindfulness interventions were beneficial for stress,anxiety and depression.Mindfulness was also effective when applied in pregnant women with a history of depression or experiencing depression.Considering emotional regulation and the level of mindfulness,there were signs of improvement,but more studies are needed.None of the studies evaluated sleep quality.Our review provides information about current mindfulness programs,an overview of the effects of mindfulness interventions,a description of the measurements used so far,and recommendations for developing highquality mindfulness protocols for pregnant women.
基金supported by a grant from CAPES-Coordenao de Aperfeioamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior(Brazil)
文摘Aphasic syndromes usually result from injuries to the dominant hemisphere of the brain. Despite the fact that localization of language functions shows little interindividual variability, several brain areas are simultaneously activated when language tasks are undertaken. Mechanisms of language recovery after brain injury to the dominant hemisphere seem to be relatively stereotyped, including activations of perilesional areas in the acute phase and of homologues of language areas in the non-dominant hemisphere in the subacute phase, later returning to dominant hemisphere activation in the chronic phase. Plasticity mechanisms reopen the critical period of language development, more specifically in what leads to disinhibition of the non-dominant hemisphere when brain lesions affect the dominant hemisphere. The non-dominant hemisphere plays an important role during recovery from aphasia, but currently available rehabilitation therapies have shown limited results for efficient language improvement. Large-scale randomized controlled trials that evaluate well-defined interventions in patients with aphasia are needed for stimulation of neuroplasticity mechanisms that enhance the role of the non-dominant hemisphere for language recovery. Ineffective treatment approaches should be replaced by more promising ones and the latter should be evaluated for proper application. The data generated by such studies could substantiate evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for patients with aphasia.
基金the Coordenacao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior-Brasil (CAPES)FAPESPCNPq for the financial support
文摘Objective: Although Angelica archangelica is a medicinal and aromatic plant with a long history of use for both medicinal and food purposes, there are no studies regarding the antineoplastic activity of its root.This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and antitumor effects of the crude extract of A. archangelica root(CEAA) on breast cancer.Methods: The cytotoxicity of CEAA against breast adenocarcinoma cells(4T1 and MCF-7) was evaluated by a 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide(MTT) assay. Morphological and biochemical changes were detected by Hoechst 33342/propidium iodide(PI) and annexin V/PI staining. Cytosolic calcium mobilization was evaluated in cells staining with FURA-4 NW. Immunoblotting was used to determine the effect of CEAA on anti-and pro-apoptotic proteins(Bcl-2 and Bax, respectively).The 4 T1 cell-challenged mice were used for in vivo assay.Results: Using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis, angelicin, a constituent of the roots and leaves of A. archangelica, was found to be the major constituent of the CEAA evaluated in this study(73 mg/mL). The CEAA was cytotoxic for both breast cancer cell lines studied but not for human fibroblasts. Treatment of 4 T1 cells with the CEAA increased Bax protein levels accompanied by decreased Bcl-2 expression, in the presence of cleaved caspase-3 and cytosolic calcium mobilization, suggesting mitochondrial involvement in breast cancer cell death induced by the CEAA in this cell line. No changes on the Bcl-2/Bax ratio were observed in CEAA-treated MCF7 cells. Gavage administration of the CEAA(500 mg/kg) to 4T1 cell-challenged mice significantly decreased tumor growth when compared with untreated animals.Conclusion: Altogether, our data show the antitumor potential of the CEAA against breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Further research is necessary to better elucidate the pharmacological application of the CEAA in breast cancer therapy.
文摘Laminin is a glycoprotein which has an important role in the mechanism of fibrogenesis and is,thus,related to hepatic fibrosis in addition to presenting increased levels in several types of neoplasias. However,its determination is not routinely considered in the study of hepatic fibrosis. In this review,the authors critically comment on the role of this glycoprotein compared to other markers of fibrosis through non-invasive procedures(Fibroscan). They also consider its clinical investigational potential and believe that the continuation of these investigations might contribute to a better understanding of the fibrogenic mechanism,which could in turn either lead to the identification of patients at risk of developing fibrosis non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH) or at least be used as an indicator for hepatic biopsy in such patients. Finally,the authors believe that serum laminin determination might contribute to the diagnosis of epithelial tumor metastasis and peritoneal carcinomatosis.
文摘Objectives: To verify the prevalence of E6/E7 RNAm expression of HPV in patients with negative cervicovaginal cytology, ASC-US and LSIL;to correlate with negative anatomopathological exams and/or squamous intraepithelial neoplasy grade I (SIN 1) of the lower genital tract (LGT);to relate the RNAm expression with viral infection types;to assess the genotyping in single infections. Methods: Findings from 825 women submitted to E6/E7 RNAm survey and 422 women submitted to LGT biopsies were analyzed. Results: A larger percentage of E6/E7 in ASC-US and LSIL cytologies occurred. Negative results of RNAm expression were in accordance with negative cytologies and negative anatomopathological exam. In positive cases, the infection by a single HPV type was most prevalent, with the type 16 being the most common. Conclusions: the expression of mRNA was most prevalent in ASC-US and LSIL cytologies, comparing with the negative ones. The findings of SIN 1 biopsies were related to the positive expression of mRNA and negative cytologies;the negative expression was in agreement with negative anatomopathological exam. The infection by a HPV type was more frequent in cases of positive expression, the HPV type 16 being most frequently found. Patients with low grade intraepithelial lesion cytologies had a higher percentage of multiple infections.
文摘The H2-receptor antagonist cimetidine is an antiulcer drug also used for the treatment of cancer due to its antiangiogenic effect. However, this drug has caused structural changes in the seminiferous tubules. Vitamin B12 has been used as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of male infertility. The supplementation of rats with vitamin B12 during cimetidine treatment has recovered the damaged seminiferous tubules, but how this vitamin restores the seminiferous epithelium has not been clarified. In this study, we evaluated whether vitamin B12 improves the number of spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and sperm concentration in cimetidine-treated rats. Adult male rats were treated for 50 days as follows： cimetidine group received 100 mg kg^-1 b.w. of cimetidine, cimetidine-B12 group received cimetidine and 3 μg of vitamin B12-hydroxocobalamin, B12 group received only 3 μg of vitamin, and control group received saline. Sperm concentration was calculated and historesin-embedded testes sections were used for the quantitative analyses of spermatogonia （A; In/B） and spermatocytes. TUNEL method and PCNA immunofluorescence were performed. Cimetidine caused a significant reduction in sperm concentration. TUNEL-positive spermatogonia and spermatocytes were correlated to a significant reduction in the number of these cells. In cimetidine-B12 group, sperm concentration was higher than cimetidine group and a significant increase in the number of spermatogonia （stages Ⅱ-Ⅵ） was correlated to a high incidence of PCNA-immunolabeled spermatogonia and spermatocytes. The results show that the supplementation of rats with vitamin B12 during cimetidine treatment increases sperm concentration and exerts a potential effect in the recovery of spermatogonia and spermatocytes.
基金partially funded by Sao Paulo Research Foundation(FAPESP),Brazil,grant numbers#2015/18808-0,#2018/23064-8,#2019/23382-2.
文摘Weather events put human lives at risk mostly when people might occupy areas susceptible to natural disasters.Deploying Professional Weather Stations(PWS)in vulnerable areas is key for monitoring weather with reliable measurements.However,such professional instrumentation is notably expensive while remote sensing from a number of stations is paramount.This imposes challenges on the large-scale weather station deployment for broad monitoring from large observation networks such as in Cemaden—The Brazilian National Center for Monitoring and Early Warning of Natural Disasters.In this context,in this paper,we propose a Low-Cost Automatic Weather Station(LCAWS)system developed from Commercial Off-The-Shelf(COTS)and open-source Internet of Things(IoT)technologies,which provides measurements as reliable as a reference PWS for natural disaster monitoring.When being automatic,LCAWS is a stand-alone photovoltaic system connected wirelessly to the Internet in order to provide real-time reliable end-to-end weather measurements.To achieve data reliability,we propose an intelligent sensor calibration method to correct measures.From a 30-day uninterrupted observation with sampling in minute resolution,we show that the calibrated LCAWS sensors have no statistically significant differences from the PWS measurements.As such,LCAWS has opened opportunities for reducing maintenance costs in Cemaden's observational network.
文摘Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) is involved with hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. However, the association of RAS components to cancer still causes suspicion. To try to clarify this, here we aimed to show this association for three important components: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 1 (ACE1), Angiotensin Type 1 Receptor (AGTR1) and Angiotensin Type 2 Receptor (AGTR2). The first articles show that association of RAS components with cancer dates back to the 70’s. ECA1 and AGTR1 have close association with cancer and ACE1 inhibitors or AGTR1 blockers are candidates to treatment of some tumors. Moreover, the action of AGTR2 is still controversial, but most studies show that the increased expression of AGTR2 can attack the cancer cells. In breast cancer, these components have also been widely studied and many works have shown that the correlation exists. Therefore specific target using these RAS components could be a beneficial, novel therapy to various tumors.
文摘This work aimed the incorporation of the enzyme bromelain from pineapple peel into dermatological bases for potential therapeutic application. The enzyme was incorporated into Lanette cream and lotion, as well as Carbopol gel and Chemyunion cream and lotion, at a concentration of 0.5% （w/w）. These bases were subjected to centrifugation test and accelerated stability test during 90 days at 25 ℃（with and without sunlight）, 37 ℃ and 4 ℃, in order to evaluate bromelain stability in dermatological bases. Total protein content and enzymatic activity were measured. The bases were stable as its organoleptic characteristics （appearance, color, smell and sensitivity to touch） only when kept at 4 ℃ with activity remaining 95.5%, 84,9%. 77.7%, 73.8% and 72.3%, alter 90 days of testing in Carbopol gel, Lanette and Chemyunion cream, and Lanette and Chemyunion lotion, respectively. Based on the results, it was possible to incorporate bromelain into dermatological bases, and the activity was well preserved when these bases were kept in refrigerator at 4 ℃.
