bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge and Attitude about COVID 19 among Health Care Workers Working in Seti Provincial Hospital
Authors: Parajuli Janaki , Mishra Pradip , Sharma Seema , Bohora Krishna Bahadur , Rathour Pratiksha Singh , Joshi Jagadish , Kamar Sher Bahadur , Pandey Hemaraj , Chaudhary Ashok
Published: November 2020

Background: Health care workers are at greater risk of infection during COVID 19 pandemic.  This study was carried out to assess the knowledge and attitude toward COVID-19 among healthcare workers at working at Seti Zonal Hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed between April and May 2020 at Seti Zonal Hospital with purposive sampling technique and self-administered questionnaire of the knowledge and attitude of healthcare workers regarding COVID-19. The demographic characteristics mean knowledge and attitude score of healthcare workers were identified and inferential statistics t-test, ANOVA and Spearman’s correlation were used to show the relationship between variables.

Results: A total of 230 healthcare workers (92% response rate) had a mean score of knowledge and attitude of 8±0.88 and 7.88±1.32, respectively with good knowledge and a low positive attitude. Majority (94.7%) were familiar with the sign and symptoms, agreed that chronic diseases patients and HCWs are at a higher risk (97%) and (87.8%) respectively while knowledge related to COVID 19 vaccination, isolation period and treatment by antibiotics was poor with low positive attitude towards information availability about COVID 19 (41%), government ability to control the epidemic (49%), and the family members might get infection (60%). There was a positive correlation between knowledge scores and attitude scores (r=0.28, p<0.0001).

Conclusions: We identified a significant gap in information source, sufficient knowledge and low positive attitude about COVID 19 among health care workers. Greater educational efforts about prevention should be directed to different level of health workers.

Keywords: Attitude; COVID-19; health care worker; knowledge.
Socio-demographic and Healthcare-seeking Predictors of Undernutrition among Children Under-five Years of Age in a Western District of Nepal
Authors: Paudel Rajan , Gurung Yogendra Bahadur , Poudyal Amod Kumar , Khatri Bijay , Bhatta Deepak Raj , Acharya Dilaram , Singh Jitendra Kumar , Adhikari Min Raj , Sapkota Ranjan , Mahotra Narayan Bahadur , Upadhyaya Dipak Prasad
Published: November 2020

Background: Undernutrition is highly prevalent in Nepal, which interferes with physical and mental development among children. It is one of the severe health problems contributing to the significant portion of the disease burden. This study aimed to explore socio-demographic and healthcare-seeking related predictors of undernutrition among children under five years old in Dang, Nepal.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. A sample of 426 children was participated through stratified proportionate random sampling to identify socio-demographics and healthcare-seeking predictors of undernutrition. Multivariable regression was applied to identify the independent predictors of undernutrition.

Results: This study found that children below 24 months of age were more likely to be undernourished than children aged 24-36 months. Female children (OR=2.32, 95% CI: 1.19-4.54), illiterate or non-formally educated women (OR=4.09, 95% CI: 1.84-9.08), mother’s occupation other than a housewife (OR=13.05, 95% CI: 4.19-40.68), labor work of father (OR=2.40, 95% CI: 1.04-5.57) had increased risk of undernutrition among children. Similarly, food insufficiency from their land, antenatal care visit, postnatal care visit, and delivery place were significantly associated with childhood undernutrition among children. 

Conclusions: The study showed that undernutrition among children is associated with age and gender of children, educational attainment of the mother, food sufficiency, health-seeking practices of the mother during pregnancy, delivery, and postnatal. Socio-demographics and health-seeking practices related predictors must be explicitly considered to address undernutrition among children under the age of five years.

Keywords: Children; health care seeking; Nepal; socio-demographic factors; undernutrition.
Impacto da implantação dos centros de parto normal na qualidade de assistência obstétrica
Authors: Gomes Francisco Enson Souza , Carneiro Eduardo de Carvalho , Ferraz Isabella Cabral , Cavalcante Igor dos Santos , Barbosa Giovanna Stefanne Lópes , Attem Marinice Saraiva , Veiga Ana Vitória Meireles , Mendes Isabella Pires Gomes , Silva Luma Nunes Pereira da , Okasaki Nayana Alves de Brito Melo
Published: November 2020

Objetivo: Descrever os efeitos que a implementação dos Centros de Parto Normal (CPN) exerceu na qualidade da assistência obstétrica de acordo com os resultados maternos e neonatais. Métodos: Revisão de Literatura Integrativa, cujos artigos foram buscados nas bases de dados Scientific Eletronic Library Online (SciELO), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrievel System Online (Medline) e Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS). Resultados: Com pouco mais de duas décadas do início da implementação dos CPN’s no Brasil, estudos mostram impactos positivos desse sistema no cuidado às parturientes e aos neonatos. Nuliparidade sem comorbidades associadas, presença de acompanhantes e emprego de posições de parto não litotômicas estiveram presentes nos trabalhos analisados, influenciando os desfechos das parturientes de forma positiva: menor uso de ocitocina, diminuição da realização de episiotomias, índice Apgar maior que 7 e poucos casos relatados de remoções maternas e fetais. Considerações Finais: Conclui-se que a adoção de CPN’s na rede de atendimento às gestantes é propícia ao cuidado materno e neonatal, não excluindo o cuidado hospitalar para quadros que requerem atendimento mais complexo, bem como para apoio em situações emergenciais.
Atributos químicos de solos em integração lavoura-pecuária de longa duração
Authors: Possamai Edivan José , Conceição Paulo Cesar , Haskel Maiara Karini , Stumpf Lizete , Paier Cristiane Dalagua , Rosa Jaqueline Kristiane da , Sartor Laércio Ricardo
Published: November 2020

Objetivou-se avaliar os atributos químicos de solos em área com adoção de sistemas integrados de produção agropecuária de longa duração, comparado a uso do solo com pastagem e mata nativa. O estudo foi realizado em áreas manejadas de cinco estabelecimentos agropecuários do Sudoeste do Paraná, que adotaram o sistema de integração lavoura-pecuária (ILP) e receberam orientações de práticas de manejo de solo por 12 anos. Em cada localidade foram amostrados solos sob ILP, pastagem (PV) e mata nativa (MN) para a determinação do pH, dos teores de Ca, Mg, K, P, da saturação por bases (V%) e alumínio (m%) e do teor de matéria orgânica do solo (MOS). A adoção do sistema de ILP, proporcionou níveis adequados dos atributos químicos dos solos, principalmente para pH, V%, m%, Ca, Mg, K e MOS. Identificaram-se, ainda, casos de uso de elevadas doses de cama de aviário como fertilizante, com altos teores de P na superfície do solo, os quais podem gerar problemas ambientais.
Riscos de infecção sexualmente transmissível nas trabalhadoras do sexo em Teresina-PI
Authors: Frota Cynthia Araújo , Batista Camila de Araújo , Santana Rosane da Silva , Cândido Ana Carolina Santos , Rodrigues Simone dos Santos , Araújo Daniele Portela , Araujo Maria Aparecida Pereira de , Cardoso Tainara Silva
Published: November 2020

No Brasil, a prostituição é considerada uma categoria profissional pelo Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego desde o ano de 2002 e está vinculada às associações em vários estados brasileiros, porém não regulamentada. É uma atividade estigmatizada e exposta a vários fatores de riscos como o consumo de álcool, tabaco, drogas ilícitas, violência, exploração sexual e infecções sexualmente transmissíveis. O objetivo do estudo foi conhecer os dados sociodemográficos e as ISTs das trabalhadoras do sexo em Teresina-PI. Estudo descritivo quantitativo realizado com 96 trabalhadoras do sexo cadastradas e regularizadas na Associação de Prostitutas do Piauí. A coleta dos dados ocorreu nos locais de atividade das trabalhadoras como bares, boates, bordeis/cabarés, utilizando-se questionário fechado. Os dados foram organizados em planilhas do programa Microsoft Office Excel e transferidos para o Programa SPSS. A maioria das trabalhadoras do sexo eram jovens com idade entre 25 a 31 anos (34,4%), solteiras (77,1%), escolaridade média (46,9%), pardas (58,3%), com renda superior a um salário mínimo (52,1%), residência fixa (58,3%) e possuíam filhos (78,1%). Concernente ao início na prostituição, a faixa etária foi de 15 a 25 anos (71,9%), com tempo de permanência na atividade de 2 a 5 anos (49,0%). Os bares foram os locais mais frequentados (49,0%), sendo realizados 4 a 5 programas diariamente (47,9%), e o sexo vaginal o mais praticado (56,3%). Quanto às ISTs, evidenciou-se a candidíase (25,0%), sintomas de dor ao urinar (69,8%) e abortos (50%). Diante dos dados, considera-se necessário aumento da cobertura assistencial pela Atenção Básica com estratégias de prevenção, promoção e proteção para redução dos agravos à saúde das trabalhadoras do sexo.
Método Pilates nas alterações musculoesqueléticas em puérperas: revisão sistemática
Authors: Barbosa Anne Karynne da Silva , Silva Luana Cristina Pereira da , Prado Jeandson Ximenes do , Silva Erianne Regylla do Monte , Sousa Ana Karina Campelo Lima Queiroz de , Sousa Thaismária Alves de
Published: November 2020

No decorrer do período gestacional o corpo feminino passa por inúmeras transformações para a preparação do crescimento fetal, do parto e alterações no puerpério, período este, considerado entre a expulsão da placenta até a volta à condição pré-gravídica, sendo dividido em pós-parto imediato, pós-parto tardio e o pós-parto remoto, é nesse período que as transformações psíquicas, físicas e motoras tornam-se evidentes, principalmente a alterações musculoesqueléticas. O fisioterapeuta é um dos profissionais que exercem um trabalho de grande importância nessa fase da vida da mulher, atuando através do método de pilates, que traz uma proposta reabilitadora e estratégia dinâmica, agregando a prática da atividade física ao relaxamento mental, trabalhando concentração, correção de movimentos e fluidez, melhorando a postura, atentando-se sempre em manter as curvaturas fisiológicas do corpo minimizando as compensações desse período. Identificar a eficácia do método pilates em puérperas, e as principais alterações musculoesqueléticas. Foi realizada revisão integrativa por meio de pesquisa eletrônica nas bases de dados da Scielo, Lilacs e Medline publicados entre 2008 a 2017. Verificou-se que são inúmeras as alterações musculoesqueléticas no puerpério, e que a fisioterapia através do método Pilates exerce influência positiva na recuperação dessas alterações, melhorando a qualidade de vida, força muscular, flexibilidade.
Como deve ser a assistência prestada a adolescentes grávidas na atenção primária?
Authors: Guerra Wytoria Paes de Oliveira , Soares Leticia Fabiane Portela , Silva Maria Nauside Pessoa da , Silva Neto Antonio Gomes da , Lima Flávia Danielli Martins , Brito Fabricia Castelo Branco de Andrade , Matias Mara Ramel de Sousa Silva
Published: November 2020

A gravidez na adolescência se configura como um problema de saúde pública. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo compreender o processo de atendimento dos enfermeiros diante a gravidez na adolescência na Atenção Básica e identificar as principais dificuldades enfrentadas ao lidar com esse grupo. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória e descritiva de natureza qualitativa junto a 10 enfermeiros cadastrados nas equipes da Estratégia Saúde da Família em municípios do Estado do Piauí, Brasil. Utilizou-se um roteiro de entrevista semiestruturada e análise em profundidade do discurso do sujeito coletivo. Através dos dados obtidos percebeu-se que a maioria dos voluntários era do gênero feminino, na faixa etária de 18 a 40 anos com tempo de trabalho de 1 a 5 anos. Foi possível analisar o conhecimento dos enfermeiros acerca da assistência prestada a adolescentes grávidas, e percebeu-se que a maioria dos enfermeiros entrevistados demonstrou conhecimento insuficiente e ineficaz na sua atuação com gestantes adolescentes. De maneira geral os enfermeiros não tem uma abordagem diferenciada e especifica para esse grupo, o que gera inúmeras barreiras para se obter uma atenção de qualidade, como a não adesão ao pré-natal, a dificuldade na formação de relações de confiança, falta de apoio das famílias e pouco compromisso e interesse com o pré-natal, parto e puerpério.
Polimorfismos de nucleotídeo simples no gene NRAMP1 / SLC11A1 ao risco de suscetibilidade para a tuberculose
Authors: Souza Karolayne Silva , Félix Kátia Cilene da Silva , Carvas Júnior Nelson , Pereira Rafaell Batista , Silva Milena Roberta Freire da , Miranda Flávia Steffany Leite , Oliveira Maria Betania Melo de , Santos Graziele dos , Lima Felicson Leonardo Oliveira , Silva Rodrigo Reges dos Santos , Brito Leandro Paes de
Published: November 2020

Introdução: A tuberculose é uma doença infectocontagiosa que possui como principal agente etiológico o Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis), que se configura como um problema de saúde pública mundial. Erros na resposta imunológica do indivíduo ao patógeno pode desencadear a suscetibilidade ao agente infeccioso, assim, estudos com SNPs no gene NRAMP1/SLC11A1, tem sido realizado amplamente em investigações de suscetibilidade às doenças infecciosas, principalmente a tuberculose. Objetivo: O objetivo foi relacionar os polimorfismos de nucleotídeo simples nas variantes 5´Promotor, D543N, INT4 e 3´UTR do gene NRAMP1/SLC11A1 na susceptibilidade do indivíduo ao M. tuberculosis por meio de uma meta-análise. Metodologia: Este trabalho foi conduzido seguindo as diretrizes metodológicas de uma Revisão Sistemática de acordo com o protocolo PRISMA, dos quais, realizou-se buscas nas principais bases eletrônicas Medline via Pubmed, Science Direct e Lilacs. Os estudos foram selecionados seguindo os critérios de elegibilidade, sendo escolhidos uma totalidade de 39 artigos científicos para a coleta de dados, sem restrição de idioma ou ano. Resultados e Discussão: Os resultados desse trabalho evidenciaram uma possível associação entre os SNPs do gene NRAMP1/SLC11A1 ao risco de suscetibilidade à tuberculose. A análise de subgrupo sugeriu que das 5 etnias e/ou continentes analisados (África, América do Sul, América do Norte, Caucasiano e Asiáticos), apenas os caucasianos não obtiveram resultados estatisticamente significativos de nenhuma variante a um maior risco de suscetibilidade à tuberculose. Conclusão: O presente estudo, evidenciou uma possível associação entre os polimorfismos nos SNPs variantes 5´Promotor, INT4, D543N e 3´UTR do gene NRAMP1/SLC11A1 ao risco de suscetibilidade a tuberculose.
Adulterantes identificados na cocaína comercializada no Piauí - PI: uma análise qualitativa do seu potencial toxicológico
Authors: Silva Carla Graziela da , Lima Lorena Almeida , Oliveira Aylla Beatriz Melo de , Brito Larisse Carneiro da Frota , Aguiar Lizia Carreiro Tomaz , Alves Nayra Barbosa , Viana Melquisedeque da Rocha , Affonso Cristiano Ribeiro Gonçalves , Amaral Mauricio Pires de Moura do
Published: November 2020

Na produção da cocaína de rua para o comércio de varejo, além do princípio ativo, outras substâncias são comumente adicionadas. A presença de outras substâncias, conhecidas como adulterantes, torna-se um agravante a mais à saúde dos usuários. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar qualitativamente a cocaína apreendida pela polícia civil do estado do PI. Para isso, foram utilizadas 100 amostras de cocaína apreendidas entre os anos de 2017 e 2018. As análises por CG-EM identificaram, principalmente, cafeína, fenacetina e levamisol em 58%, 48% e 30% das amostras, respectivamente. Somente 9% das amostras não possuíam adulterantes. Esses adulterantes podem alterar os sinais e sintomas de uma intoxicação por cocaína causando desde um aumento do seu poder adictivo a distúrbios hematológicos. Por fim, é possível concluir que a cocaína apreendida no PI não possui um grau elevado de pureza e que devido ao perfil toxicológico dos seus principais adulterantes a identificação dessas substâncias é um dado de grande relevância já que auxilia na compreensão do seu mercado e do real risco à saúde de seus usuários.
Evidências científicas acerca da prevalência de quedas e fatores associados em idosos
Authors: Silva Emylla de Sousa , Pereira Rita de Kássia Ayres , Cortez Antônio Carlos Leal
Published: November 2020

Objetivo: elucidar, através de uma revisão sistemática, as evidências científicas acerca da prevalência de quedas e influência de variáveis a elas associadas em idosos. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo de revisão sistemática da literatura, realizada nas bases de dados SciELO e    BVS através dos descritores controlados, idoso, fatores associados e prevalência, bem como suas traduções para o espanhol e inglês, de acordo com os DeCS e Mesh, publicados entre os anos de 2010 a 2020. Resultados: Identificamos um total de 55 fatores associados a quedas em idosos, nos estudos selecionados nessa revisão. Com a prevalência de quedas em idosos institucionalizados variou de 15,1% a 100%, com os principais fatores associados apresentados: a necessidade de algum tipo de auxílio para se deslocar, fraqueza, equilíbrio, distúrbios de marcha, transtornos de mobilidade e controle postural (83%), sexo feminino (50%) e cor da pele, dificuldades para enxergar, ambientes inadequados e comorbidades associadas (33%). Já a prevalência de quedas em idosos não institucionalizados, variou entre 10,7% a 59,3%, com os principais fatores associados: sexo feminino e idade avançada (57%), problemas relacionados à deambulação e comorbidades associadas (38%) e ambientes inadequados (33%). Considerações finais: Visto o exposto, podemos concluir que os principais fatores de risco associados a risco de quedas de idosos, institucionalizados e não institucionalizados, mencionados nos estudos selecionados formam a necessidade de algum tipo de auxílio para se deslocar, fraqueza, equilíbrio, distúrbios de marcha, transtornos de mobilidade e controle postural, sexo feminino, idade avançada, cor da pele, dificuldades para enxergar, ambientes inadequados e comorbidades associadas.
Impacts caused by COVID-19 on the Brazilian Education sector: An Application of Exploratory Factorial Analysis
Authors: Silva Tuany Esthefany Barcellos de Carvalho , Sanfins Marco Aurélio , Granja Isabela da Costa , Santos Daiane Rodrigues dos , Santos Pablo Silva Machado Bispo dos
Published: November 2020

The year 2020 was marked by the beginning of a pandemic caused by the new coronavirus (Covid-19). This virus of easy and rapid contagion has impacted several sectors around the world, and like many countries Brazil seeks to minimize such impacts. Due to the ease of contamination, restrictive measures had to be adopted, such as social distancing, causing the closure of industries, businesses, universities, schools, among others, always seeking to reduce contact between individuals. The educational sector was severely affected, with the extremely necessary implementation of measures to allow the school year continuity. This work aims to measure the impacts caused by COVID-19 on the educational field, through factorial analysis. Data was collected via a virtual questionnaire, which made it possible to analyze the effects of this scenario on the lives of education professionals. The results were satisfactory, showing factors that influence directly on the performance of professionals during this challenging period.
Fatores associados a dislipidemia do colesterol da lipoproteína de alta densidade em quilombolas
Authors: Santos Mariana da Silva , Almeida Cláudio Bispo de , Santos Aline Gomes , Amorim Angelo Maurício de , Mussi Ricardo Franklin de Freitas
Published: November 2020

O presente estudo teve o objetivo de analisar a prevalência da dislipidemia do colesterol da lipoproteína de alta densidade (HDL-c) e fatores associados em população quilombola baiana. Trata-se de um estudo de base populacional, com 850 adultos de ambos os sexos. A dislipidemia do HDL-c foi determinada para valores <50 mg/dl para mulheres e <40 mg/dl para homens, conforme a atualização da Diretriz Brasileira de Dislipidemias e Prevenção da Aterosclerose. A regressão de Poisson, bruta e ajustada, foi usada para testar as associações. A prevalência da dislipidemia do HDL-c foi de 17,5% (Intervalo de Confiança 95%:  14,9:20,0). Os fatores associados (p<0,05) a dislipidemia foram: a idade, situação conjugal, hipertensão e diabetes. Conclui-se que a dislipidemia do HDL-c é mais prevalente em quilombolas mais velhos, casados, hipertensos e diabéticos.
A percepção dos gestores de propriedades rurais e o processo da sucessão familiar
Authors: Brizzolla Maria Margarete Baccin , Chapoval Neto Alexandre , Krawszuk Gabriela Luisa , Berlezi Maiara
Published: November 2020

O principal objetivo do estudo foi retratar como os gestores das propriedades rurais trabalham a sucessão familiar. Quanto ao problema, buscou-se compreender como os gestores das propriedades rurais trabalham a sucessão familiar? Na parte metodológica, utilizou-se os métodos de abordagem dedutivo, qualitativo e quantitativo. Os procedimentos foram descritivo, pesquisa de campo e comparativa. Para a coleta de dados empregou-se a observação, entrevista, questionário, pesquisa bibliográfica e pesquisa documental. Para análise de dados adotou-se a planilha eletrônica e análise de conteúdo. Quanto a amostra das propriedades se deu pela acessibilidade. A fundamentação teórica é composta por estudos anteriores e tópicos relacionados ao estudo. Através do material bibliográfico buscou-se os elementos que caracterizam a sucessão familiar e as características das propriedades pelo critério de porte. A pesquisa foi aplicada em 18 propriedades rurais do município de Alegria – RS e 16 no município de Coronel Bicaco – RS. Através da pesquisa aplicada aos pais e o questionário aplicado aos filhos de 15 anos ou mais, que percebeu-se que 44,12% das famílias ainda não pensaram na possibilidade de um sucessor assumir a propriedade. Verificou-se que 52,94% não realizam nenhuma atividade voltada ao processo sucessório. Desta forma, descobriu-se que é suma importância as famílias do meio rural ter conhecimento no que diz respeito a sucessão familiar em suas propriedades, pois com a falta do processo sucessório poderá ocorrer o que chamamos de ruptura do negócio familiar, e planejá-lo trará vantagens até mesmo para a continuidade do trabalho familiar.
Análise da situação da gestão da assistência farmacêutica de um município do interior da Bahia
Authors: Lopes Lucas Silva , Santos Tayanne Andrade dos , Rodrigues Rafael Luiz de Araújo
Published: November 2020

A institucionalização da Assistência Farmacêutica na atenção básica no Brasil, nos sistemas municipais de saúde ainda é parcial e ocorre de forma heterogênea nas distintas regiões do país. Essa institucionalização deve ser pautada por uma atuação dos profissionais que busquem compreender e fomentar políticas públicas de saúde para gerenciar serviços de saúde, em uma perspectiva interdisciplinar, intersetorial e multiprofissional contribuindo para uma consolidação da Estratégia da Saúde da Família. Pesquisa com abordagem descritiva, quantitativa e exploratória do tipo corte transversal, as entrevistas foram realizadas no mês de julho de 2020 com doze gestores da Atenção Básica, sendo eles a Secretária de Saúde; a Coordenadora do Centro Atenção Psicossocial; a Coordenadora da Atenção Básica; a Coordenadora da Assistência Farmacêutica; e as gerentes das Unidade Básica de Saúde. Esta pesquisa objetivou a relatar a situação da capacidade gerencial e de planejamento da gestão da AF, além da identificação dos possíveis pontos de melhorias para avanço no serviço. A dispensação nas unidades é realizada pelo técnico de enfermagem. Todos os gestores conhecem a Relação Municipal de Medicamentos e a existência do monitoramento contudo a avaliação das ações da assistência não é visto por todas as gerentes. Apesar dos avanços na Assistência Farmacêutica em todo o país e no município estudado, ainda há muito a ser feito, para que problemas não comprometam a qualidade dos serviços.
Mechanisms of CDK4/6 Inhibitor Resistance in Luminal Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Zhen , Zou Wei , Zhang Ji , Zhang Yunjiao , Xu Qi , Li Siyuan , Chen Ceshi
Published: November 2020

As a new-generation CDK inhibitor, a CDK4/6 inhibitor combined with endocrine therapy has been successful in the treatment of advanced estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) breast cancer. Although there has been overall progress in the treatment of cancer, drug resistance is an emerging cause for breast cancer–related death. Overcoming CDK4/6 resistance is an urgent problem. Overactivation of the cyclin-CDK-Rb axis related to uncontrolled cell proliferation is the main cause of CDK4/6 inhibitor resistance; however, the underlying mechanisms need to be clarified further. We review various resistance mechanisms of CDK4/6 inhibitors in luminal breast cancer. The cell signaling pathways involved in therapy resistance are divided into two groups: upstream response mechanisms and downstream bypass mechanisms. Finally, we discuss possible strategies to overcome CDK4/6 inhibitor resistance and identify novel resistance targets for future clinical application.
Systematic Investigation of the Effects of a Novel Protein Hydrolysate on the Growth, Physiological Parameters, Fruit Development and Yield of Grapevine (Vitis Vinifera L., cv Sauvignon Blanc) under Water Stress Conditions
Authors: Meggio Franco , Trevisan Sara , Manoli Alessandro , Ruperti Benedetto , Quaggiotti Silvia
Published: November 2020

In the last decade climate change has impacted viticulture and water deficit has become a major concern in fruit production. Many studies have been carried out to determine the grapevine response to environmental changes and to identify key genetic traits to be used in grapevine breeding. However, in order to better manage climate-related risks, novel viticultural practices are urgently needed. A promising solution for a more sustainable model of viticulture involves the use of biostimulants. In this study, the effectiveness of a novel biostimulant (APR®) belonging to the group of protein thermal hydrolysates was tested on grapevine plants subjected to progressive water deficit conditions. Our results showed that this compound applied to roots before imposing water deprivation mitigates the consequences of stress by sustaining the growth of the younger vegetative organs and limiting the extent of cell dehydration; this positive impact on the plant’s physiological state persisted during the recovery phase. Furthermore, at the end of the growing season, plants treated with the biostimulant, both in optimal water conditions and under water stress, exhibited a greater accumulation of biomass in the aerial part (6.8% and 21.3 %, respectively) and a higher berry diameter (3.4 % and 9.5 %, respectively). Additional work through field trials will be necessary to further substantiate these results and to translate this knowledge into specific practices that grape growers can easily adopt.
Selection of the Root Endophyte Pseudomonas brassicacearum CDVBN10 as Plant Growth Promoter for Brassica napus L. Crops
Authors: Jiménez-Gómez Alejandro , Saati-Santamaría Zaki , Kostovcik Martin , Rivas Raúl , Velázquez Encarna , Mateos Pedro F. , Menéndez Esther , García-Fraile Paula
Published: November 2020

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is an important crop worldwide, due to its multiple uses, such as a human food, animal feed and a bioenergetic crop. Traditionally, its cultivation is based on the use of chemical fertilizers, known to lead to several negative effects on human health and the environment. Plant growth-promoting bacteria may be used to reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, but efficient bacteria in controlled conditions frequently fail when applied to the fields. Bacterial endophytes, protected from the rhizospheric competitors and extreme environmental conditions, could overcome those problems and successfully promote the crops under field conditions. Here, we present a screening process among rapeseed bacterial endophytes to search for an efficient bacterial strain, which could be developed as an inoculant to biofertilize rapeseed crops. Based on in vitro, in planta, and in silico tests, we selected the strain Pseudomonas brassicacearum CDVBN10 as a promising candidate; this strain produces siderophores, solubilizes P, synthesizes cellulose and promotes plant height in 5 and 15 days-post-inoculation seedlings. The inoculation of strain CDVBN10 in a field trial with no addition of fertilizers showed significant improvements in pod numbers, pod dry weight and shoot dry weight. In addition, metagenome analysis of root endophytic bacterial communities of plants from this field trial indicated no alteration of the plant root bacterial microbiome; considering that the root microbiome plays an important role in plant fitness and development, we suggest this maintenance of the plant and its bacterial microbiome homeostasis as a positive result. Thus, Pseudomonas brassicacearum CDVBN10 seems to be a good biofertilizer to improve canola crops with no addition of chemical fertilizers; this the first study in which a plant growth-promoting (PGP) inoculant specifically designed for rapeseed crops significantly improves this crop’s yields in field conditions.
Soil Microbial Community Profiling and Bacterial Metabolic Activity of Technosols as an Effect of Soil Properties following Land Reclamation: A Case Study from the Abandoned Iron Sulphide and Uranium Mine in Rudki (South-Central Poland)
Authors: Wolińska Agnieszka , Włodarczyk Kinga , Kuźniar Agnieszka , Marzec-Grządziel Anna , Grządziel Jarosław , Gałązka Anna , Uzarowicz Łukasz
Published: November 2020

The aims of the study were (1) to recognize the structure of bacteria diversity in Technosols developed from mine spoils containing iron (Fe) sulphides with the use of culture-independent technique, and (2) to determine microbial metabolic activities, in the context of their potential to be an adequate indicators of soil properties being the consequence of land reclamation. The study site was located in the vicinity of the abandoned Fe sulphide and uranium mine in Rudki village (Holy Cross Mts., Poland). Three soil profiles with different chemical properties (pH, content of carbonates, soil salinity, content of total organic carbon and total nitrogen) were studied. Biodiversity was determined with the use of meta-barcoding of 16S rRNA community profiling analysis based on the hypervariable V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA gene (MiSeq, Illumina). The catabolic fingerprinting of soil microbial communities was evaluated with the use of Biolog®EcoPlates™ System. It was evidenced that changes in microbial structure and their metabolic activity were the consequence of a combined effect of both the soil depth and soil chemical properties being the final result of reclamation process. Consequently, microbial indicators (from phyla to genera level) indirectly testifying about success or ineffectiveness of reclamation in technogenic soils were recommended. To our best knowledge, the present study is the first insight into Polish Technosols biodiversity and catabolic activity.
The Case for Intermittent Carbapenem Dosing in Stable Haemodialysis Patients
Authors: Ho Vanda , Tay Felecia , Wu Jia En , Lum Lionel , Tambyah Paul
Published: November 2020

Purpose: Antimicrobial resistant infections are common in patients on haemodialysis, often needing long courses of carbapenems. This results in a longer hospital stay and risk of iatrogenic complications. However, carbapenems can be given intermittently to allow for earlier discharge. We aim to describe the clinical outcomes of intermittent versus daily meropenem in stable, intermittently haemodialysed patients. Methods: In total, 103 records were examined retrospectively. Data collected include demographics, clinical interventions and outcomes such as hospital length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission rates and adverse events. Findings: Mean age 61.6 ± 14.2 years, 57.3% male. Most common bacteria cultured were Klebsiella pneumoniae (16.5%). The most common indication was pneumonia (27.2%). Mean duration of therapy on meropenem was 12.4 ± 14.4 days; eight patients needed more than 30 days of meropenem. In total, 55.3% did not have intervention for source control; 86.4% received daily dosing of meropenem; 7.8% patients received intermittent dosing of meropenem only, and 5.8 patients received both types of dosing regimens. LOS of the index admission was shorter for the intermittent arm (15.5 ± 7.6 days versus daily: 30.2 ± 24.5 days), though 30-day readmission was higher (50% versus daily: 38.2%). Implications: We recommend further rigorous randomised controlled trials to investigate the clinical utility of intermittent meropenem dosing in patients on stable haemodialysis.
Antioxidant Effects of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Inflorescence Extract in Stripped Linseed Oil
Authors: Cantele Carolina , Bertolino Marta , Bakro Fatema , Giordano Manuela , Jędryczka Małgorzata , Cardenia Vladimiro
Published: November 2020

The ability of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) inflorescence extract to counteract lipid oxidation was studied in stripped linseed oil. The ethanolic extract was characterized in terms of terpenes (6.00 mg/mL), cannabidiol (4.99% w/w), phenolic compounds (1.80 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/mL), antiradical, and metal ion-chelating activities (50% effective concentration (EC50) of 2.47 mg/mL and 0.39 mg/mL, respectively). The stripped linseed oil, used as control (CO), was mixed with hemp extract (HO) or α-tocopherol (EO) at a ratio of 0.6% (w/w) and stored for 7 days in darkness at 40 °C. Hemp extract reduced the oxidation and lipolysis processes. At the end of the storage, HO showed a significantly higher level of α-linolenic acid (ALA; 26.64 g/100 g), lower peroxide value (PV) (21.19 meq O2/kg oil), and lower hexanal content (7.67 mmol/kg oil) than those found in the control. In contrast, EO showed a marked lipolysis (the free fatty acids increased by 42.57%) and a noticeable oxidation, since the ALA content decreased by 2.10% and a PV of 50 meq O2/kg oil was observed. This study demonstrates that hemp inflorescences can be used as a source of natural antioxidants in vegetable oils and lipid products to retard their oxidation, especially those characterized by a high degree of unsaturation.
Simultaneous Adsorption and Photocatalysis Processes Based on Ternary TiO2–CuxS–Fly Ash Hetero-Structures
Authors: Andronic Luminita , Isac Luminita , Cazan Cristina , Enesca Alexandru
Published: November 2020

Ternary composites of TiO2–CuxS–fly ash were used in simultaneous adsorption and photocatalysis processes for the removal of organic (dye) pollutants. Composites of semiconductor (TiO2, CuxS) nanomaterials hosted within matrices of fly ash, such as film heterostructures, are promising materials for advanced wastewater treatment. The combination of adsorption and photocatalysis processes was investigated in the removal of methylene blue (MB), considered as a standard in photocatalysis. Ternary film heterostructures obtained by doctor blade technique allows overcoming the separation step of particles from treated wastewater. The comparison between the adsorption and photodegradation tests performed with TiO2–CuxS–fly ash showed that in dark conditions, the MB removal was 75% after 360 min, while in the presence of UV radiation, almost total dismissal of MB was achieved in the same treatment period. The degradation rate of MB, when H2O2 is used as an electron acceptor, could reach 90% in adsorption and 99% in simultaneous adsorption/photocatalysis processes. The adsorption isotherm was found to follow the Langmuir and Freundlich models.
Effects of a Wearable Carriage Aid on Whole-Body Physiological Measures and Balance
Authors: Alabdulkarim Saad A. , Farhan Abdulsalam M. , Ramadan Mohamed Z.
Published: November 2020

Carriage tasks are common and can lead to shoulder and lower back injuries. Wearable carriage aids have shown mixed effects on local physical demand measures. This study examined the impact of a wearable carriage aid on whole-body physiological measures (normalized oxygen consumption, minute ventilation, respiratory rate, and heart rate) to obtain a more comprehensive assessment regarding aid effectiveness. Additionally, this study investigated the effect of wearing the device on perceived balance. The potential moderating effect of carried load mass was considered. The examination was conducted while walking on a treadmill at a constant speed (2 km/h) for 5 min and was completed by 16 participants. Wearing the device reduced normalized oxygen consumption (~14%), minute ventilation (~7%), and heart rate (~3%), while substantially improving perceived balance (~61%). These effects were consistent across examined carried load levels. Although this study highlighted the potential for the developed aid, future studies are required for more diverse and realistic testing conditions.
Histopathology and Genetic Biomarkers of Choroidal Melanoma
Authors: Broggi Giuseppe , Russo Andrea , Reibaldi Michele , Russo Daniela , Varricchio Silvia , Bonfiglio Vincenza , Spatola Corrado , Barbagallo Cristina , Foti Pietro Valerio , Avitabile Teresio , Longo Antonio , Caltabiano Rosario
Published: November 2020

Choroidal melanoma (CM), despite its rarity, is the most frequent intraocular malignancy. Over time, several histological variants of CM have been distinguished, including spindle A and B cell, fascicular, epithelioid and necrotic type. However, they have been progressively abandoned as having no prognostic value and currently, the American Joint Committee of Cancer (AJCC) classification identifies three CM cell types: spindle, epithelioid and mixed cell type. Other rare histological variants of CM include: (i) diffuse melanoma; (ii) clear cell; and (iii) balloon cell melanoma. Immunohistochemically, CMs are stained with Human Melanoma Black 45 (HMB45) antigen, S-100 protein, Melan-A (also known as melanoma antigen recognized by T cells 1/MART-1), melanocyte inducing transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, vimentin, and Sex determining region Y-Box 10 (SOX10). Several genetic and histopathological prognostic factors of CM have been reported in the literature, including epithelioid cell type, TNM staging, extraocular extension, monosomy 3 and 6p gain and loss of BAP-1 gene. The aim of this review was to summarize the histopathological, immunohistochemical and genetic features of CM, establishing “the state of the art” and providing colleagues with practical tools to promptly deal with patients affected by this rare malignant neoplasm.
Porous Materials Derived from Industrial By-Products for Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Capture
Authors: Cornelio Antonella , Zanoletti Alessandra , Federici Stefania , Depero Laura Eleonora , Bontempi Elza
Published: November 2020

The aim of this paper was the evaluation of hybrid porous materials, named SUNSPACE (“SUstaiNable materials Synthesized from by-Products and Alginates for Clean air and better Environment”), realized with raw materials such as silica fume (SUNSPACE SF) and bottom ash derived from municipal solid waste incineration (SUNSPACE BA), compared to cement and leaf for particulate matter (PM) entrapment. SUNSPACE BA was synthesized to overcome the limited applicability of the original material due to its dark grey color. The modification of raw materials used for its realization allows one to obtain a light color in comparison to the corresponding SUNSPACE SF, more suitable to be used as a coating on the buildings’ facades for aesthetic reasons. Moreover, another great advantage was obtained by the synthesis of SUNSPACE BA in the frame of circular economy principles; indeed, it was obtained by using a waste material (derived from waste incineration), opening new possibilities for its reuse. Experimental tests to evaluate the particles entrapment capability of the material were realized for the first time by using a nanoparticles generator. TiO2 suspension with a size of 300 nm and a concentration of 3 g/L was used to simulate a monodisperse nanoparticles flux. To compare the quantity of TiO2 adsorbed by each specimen, both the exposed and the pristine samples were digested and then analyzed by total X-ray fluorescence (TXRF). The results showed a high adsorption capacity of SUNSPACE BA (3526 ± 30 mg/kg).
Development and Testing of a Roots Pump for Hydrogen Recirculation in Fuel Cell System
Authors: Xing Linfen , Feng Jianmei , Chen Wenqing , Xing Ziyi , Peng Xueyuan
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the development and testing of a Roots pump with a new rotor profile for hydrogen recirculation in the fuel cell system are presented. The design method of the rotor profile, port position, and structure of the pump is presented. A prototype of a three-lobe Roots pump with helical rotors was fabricated, and its performance was experimentally tested. The measured data show that the effect of the pressure difference on the flow rate and volumetric efficiency of the Roots pump is the most significant, while the effect of suction pressure is limited. It is concluded that the leakage rather than flow resistance is the key factor, which has a major influence on volumetric and isentropic efficiency. The comparison of the performance is also given by the measured results of the same Roots pump working with air, helium, and hydrogen. Finally, the successful integration of the Roots pumps into three PEM fuel cell systems is reported and the optimal operating parameters of the Roots pump in the systems under various loads are also presented. It is found that the performance of the Roots pump integrated into the fuel cell system is better than that measured with pure hydrogen on the test rig. The performance maps composed of all the measured data of the Roots pump are very helpful for the optimal design and operation of the fuel cell system.
Bioelectrical Signals for the Diagnosis and Therapy of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Authors: Avci Recep , Miller Kiara J.W. , Paskaranandavadivel Niranchan , Bradshaw Leonard A. , Huckabee Maggie-Lee , Cheng Leo K.
Published: November 2020

Coordinated contractions and motility patterns unique to each gastrointestinal organ facilitate the digestive process. These motor activities are coordinated by bioelectrical events, sensory and motor nerves, and hormones. The motility problems in the gastrointestinal tract known as functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are generally caused by impaired neuromuscular activity and are highly prevalent. Their diagnosis is challenging as symptoms are often vague and difficult to localize. Therefore, the underlying pathophysiological factors remain unknown. However, there is an increasing level of research and clinical evidence suggesting a link between FGIDs and altered bioelectrical activity. In addition, electroceuticals (bioelectrical therapies to treat diseases) have recently gained significant interest. This paper gives an overview of bioelectrical signatures of gastrointestinal organs with normal and/or impaired motility patterns and bioelectrical therapies that have been developed for treating FGIDs. The existing research evidence suggests that bioelectrical activities could potentially help to identify the diverse etiologies of FGIDs and overcome the drawbacks of the current clinically adapted methods. Moreover, electroceuticals could potentially be effective in the treatment of FGIDs and replace the limited existing conventional therapies which often attempt to treat the symptoms rather than the underlying condition.
The Effect of a Composite Nanostructure on the Mechanical Properties of a Novel Al-Cu-Mn Alloy through Multipass Cold Rolling and Aging
Authors: Feng Ke , Yang Ming , Long Shao-lei , Li Bo
Published: November 2020

An effective approach composed of solution treatment, multipass cold rolling and aging was developed to improve the strength and ductility of novel Al-Cu-Mn alloys. This approach increased the yield strength by 214 MPa over that of the conventional peak-aged samples while maintaining a good elongation of 8.7%. The microstructure evolution was examined by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). During postaging, deformed structures underwent a considerable decrease in dislocation density and typical dislocation network structures were formed. At the same time, highly dispersed nanoprecipitates and extensive ultrafine grains and nanograins were generated. These nanoprecipitations enabled effective dislocation pinning and accumulation during tension deformation. Therefore, composite nanostructures containing ultrafine grains, nanograins, dislocation network structures and nanoprecipitates were responsible for the simultaneous increases in strength and ductility. This paper provides a new understanding of designing composite nanostructure materials for achieving high strength and good ductility that is expected to be used for other age-hardenable alloys and steels.
Artificial Intelligence, Accelerated in Parallel Computing and Applied to Nonintrusive Appliance Load Monitoring for Residential Demand-Side Management in a Smart Grid: A Comparative Study
Authors: Hu Yu-Chen , Lin Yu-Hsiu , Lin Chi-Hung
Published: November 2020

A smart grid is a promising use-case of AIoT (AI (artificial intelligence) across IoT (internet of things)) that enables bidirectional communication among utilities that arises with demand response (DR) schemes for demand-side management (DSM) and consumers that manage their power demands according to received DR signals. Disaggregating composite electric energy consumption data from a single minimal set of plug-panel current and voltage sensors installed at the electric panel in a practical field of interest, nonintrusive appliance load monitoring (NIALM), a cost-effective load disaggregation approach for (residential) DSM, is able to discern individual electrical appliances concerned without accessing each of them by individual plug-load power meters (smart plugs) deployed intrusively. The most common load disaggregation approaches are based on machine learning algorithms such as artificial neural networks, while approaches based on evolutionary computing, metaheuristic algorithms considered as global optimization and search techniques, have recently caught the attention of researchers. This paper presents a genetic algorithm, developed in consideration of parallel evolutionary computing, and aims to address NIALM, whereby load disaggregation from composite electric energy consumption data is declared as a combinatorial optimization problem and is solved by the algorithm. The algorithm is accelerated in parallel, as it would involve large amounts of NIALM data disaggregated through evolutionary computing, chromosomes, and/or evolutionary cycles to dominate its performance in load disaggregation and excessively cost its execution time. Moreover, the evolutionary computing implementation based on parallel computing, a feed-forward, multilayer artificial neural network that can learn from training data across all available workers of a parallel pool on a machine (in parallel computing) addresses the same NIALM/load disaggregation. Where, a comparative study is made in this paper. The presented methodology is experimentally validated by and applied on a publicly available reference dataset.
Fixed Points of g-Interpolative Ćirić–Reich–Rus-Type Contractions in b-Metric Spaces
Authors: Errai Youssef , Marhrani El Miloudi , Aamri Mohamed
Published: November 2020

We use interpolation to obtain a common fixed point result for a new type of Ćirić–Reich–Rus-type contraction mappings in metric space. We also introduce a new concept of g-interpolative Ćirić–Reich–Rus-type contractions in b-metric spaces, and we prove some fixed point results for such mappings. Our results extend and improve some results on the fixed point theory in the literature. We also give some examples to illustrate the given results.