bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of Healthcare-related Charges in Women with BRCA Mutations and Breast Cancer
Authors: Biskupiak Joseph , Unni Sudhir , Telford Claire , Yoo Minkyoung , Ye Xiangyang , Deka Rishi , Brixner Diana , Stenehjem David
Published: July 2020

Background Breast cancer costs were estimated at $16.5 billion in 2010, and were higher than other cancer costs. There are limited studies on breast cancer charges and costs by BRCA mutations and receptor status. We examined overall health care and breast cancer-related charges by BRCA status (BRCAm vs. BRCAwt), receptor status (HER2+ vs. HER2-), and treatment setting (neoadjuvant vs. adjuvant). Methods Retrospective cohort study of charge data from 1995-2014 in an academic medical center. Facilities, physician, pharmacy, and diagnosis-related charges were presented as mean and median charges with standard deviation (SD) and interquartile ranges (25%-75%). Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to assess statistically significant differences in charges between comparators. Results Total median breast-cancer related charges were $65,414 for BRCAm and $54,635 for BRCAwt (p=0.19); however all-cause charges were higher for BRCAm patients ($145,066 vs. $119,119, p<0.001). HER2+ status was associated with higher median breast cancer charges ($152,159 vs. $44,087, p<0.0001) that was driven by the charges for biological agents. Patients initially seen in the neoadjuvant setting had higher mean breast cancer charges than in the adjuvant setting ($117,922 vs. $80,061, p<0.0001).Conclusion BRCA mutation status was not associated with higher breast cancer charges but HER2+ status had significantly higher charges, due to charges for biological agents. Patients who initially received neoadjuvant treatment had significantly higher overall treatment charges than adjuvant therapy patients. With the advent of novel therapies for BRCAm, the economic impact of these treatments will be important to consider relative to their survival benefits.
Fertility Desire and Associated Factors among Sexually Active HIV Positive Women at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ayalew Tilksew Abitie , Asmare Eden
Published: July 2020

Background: Many HIV-positive women continue to want to have children in spite of knowledge of their HIV status and the risk it imposes. This study aimed to assess the level of fertility desire and associated factors human immune-deficiency-positive women at Felege Hiwot referral Hospital.Methods: An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly 308 HIV positive reproductive age women at Felege Hiwot referral Hospital from June 01st -30th, 2018. Data were collected using structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version20.Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression statistics were carried out. Statistical significance was declared at P -value <0.05.Results: Out of 308 of participants, 45.5% reported a desire to have children in the near future. Being sexually activity (aOR=2.62, 95%CI; 1.58- 6.73), family planning use (aOR=7.62, 95%CI; 3.23-17.98), consistent condom use (aOR=2.6, 95%CI; 1.37- 4.94), and absence of children (aOR=4.43, 95%CI; 1.85- 10.64) were predictors of fertility desire.Conclusion: A considerable proportion HIV-positive women in the study area reported to have children in the future. Integration of family planning and ART services, attention to sexually active HIV positive women and supporting HIV positive women with unmet need of family planning could have significant impact.
Phlebotomus (Adlerius) Simici Nitzulescu, 1931: First Record in Austria and Phylogenetic Relationship With Other Adlerius Species
Authors: Kniha Edwin , Dvorak Vit , Milchram Markus , Obwaller Adelheid , Köhsler Martina , Pöppl Wolfgang , Antoniou Maria , Chaskopoulou Alexandra , Paronyan Lusine , Stefanovski Jovana , Mooseder Gerhard , Volf Petr , Walochnik Julia
Published: July 2020

Background
Phlebotomine sand flies are the principal vectors of Leishmania spp. (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae). Sand fly findings in Central Europe are scarce and in Austria, to date only Phlebotomus mascittii has been recorded. In 2018 and 2019, entomological surveys were conducted in Austria with the aim to further clarify sand fly distribution and species composition.
Results
In 2019, a Ph. simici specimen was trapped in Austria for the first time. Analyses of two commonly used marker genes, COI and cyt b, revealed high sequence identity with Ph. simici specimens from North Macedonia and Greece. Phylogenetic analyses showed high intraspecific distances within Ph. simici, thereby dividing this species into three lineages, from Europe, Turkey and Israel, respectively. Low interspecific distances between Ph. simici, Ph. brevis and a yet unidentified Adlerius sp. from Turkey and Armenia highlights that molecular identification can be challenging within the Adlerius complex, even when applying standard marker genes.
Conclusion
This study provides the first finding of Ph. simici in Austria and the northernmost record so far. Moreover, it reveals valuable insights into the phylogenetic relationships of species within the Adlerius subgenus. Ph. simici is a suspected vector of Leishmania infantum and therefore of medical and veterinary importance. Potential sand fly expansion in Central Europe due to climatic change and the increasing import of Leishmania-infected dogs from endemic areas, urge the need for further studies on sand fly distribution in Austria and Central Europe in general.
Circulating lncRNA DLG1-AS1 in Plasma as a Novel Diagnostic Marker for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ESCC)
Authors: Wei Xiuqin , Gao Qiang , Jia Wei , Ma Chao , Xue Mei , Wang Yali , Zhang Mengqiao , Su Lei
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in some cases can be diagnosed as esophageal varices (EV). DLG1-AS1 promotes cervical cancer, while its function is other malignancies remains unknown. Our aim for this study is to study the role of DLG1-AS1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.METHODS: Plasma levels of DLG1-AS1 in 66 early stage ESCC patients, 60 EV patients and 60 healthy controls were measured by RT-qPCR. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to analyze the diagnostic value of DLG1-AS1 for early stage ESCC. Relationship between miR-145 and DLG1-AS1 was analyzed by overexpression experiments. Proliferation of cells was determined by CCK-8 assay. RESULTS: DLG1-AS1 was upregulated in ESCC, but not in EV patients compared with healthy control. DLG1-AS1 overexpression distinguished ESCC patients from healthy controls and EV patients. Plasma miR-145 was inversely correlated with DLG1-AS1 in ESCC patients. Moreover, DLG1-AS1 overexpression resulted in the downregulation of miR-145, while miR-145 mimic transfection did not significantly alter DLG1-AS1. Overexpression of DLG1-AS1 mediated the promoted, while overexpression of miR-145 resulted in inhibited proliferation of ESCC cells. The role of DLG1-AS1 overexpression was inhibited by miR-145 mimic transfection. CONCLUSION: Therefore, DLG1-AS1 may promote ESCC under the repression of miR-145.
The effect of hydroxychloroquine against SARS-CoV-2 infection in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Küçükakkaş Okan , Aydın Teoman
Published: July 2020

INTRODUCTION: The effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine in SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis and treatment is still controversial. In this study, our aim is to investigate the potential effects of hydroxychloroquine therapy on patients with diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.METHOD: We included patients who were followed up with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and whose SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed. The patients were divided into two groups as those who previously used hydroxychloroquine and those who did not, and were compared in terms of clinical and laboratory data.RESULTS: Our study included 17 patients with adequate data (2 males, 15 females). The mean age of the patients was 57.2 ± 11.6 years. 7 (41.2%) patients were receiving hydroxychloroquine regularly for the last 6 months. When the effect of hydroxychloroquine on clinical and laboratory parameters of patients was examined, there was no significant difference between the groups of patients using and not using hydroxychloroquine. The patients using and not using hydroxychloroquine were compared for the presence of typical SARS-CoV-2 infection findings on computed tomography images, admission to the hospital and intensive care. No significant differences were observed between these two groups.CONCLUSIONS: Many studies on the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine use in SARS-CoV-2 infection are still ongoing. Due to its importance in rheumatology practice, it is very important to clarify the position of hydroxychloroquine in SARS-CoV-2 therapy. Our findings suggest that having previously used hydroxychloroquine does not have any negative or positive effect on the infection.
The effects of Staphylococcus aureus on the β-lactamase enzymes and virulence factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in lung disease
Authors: Arabestani Mohammad , Alikhani Mohammad Yousef , Tahmasebi Hamed , Dehbashi Sanaz
Published: July 2020

BackgroundPseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus often lead to serious lung infections. This study aimed to investigate the role of Staphylococcus aureus in the expression of the β-lactamase enzymes and virulence factors of P. aeruginosa in the polymicrobial infections of the respiratory tract.ResultsIt was demonstrated that S. aureus reduced the viability of P. aeruginosa , particularly in the biofilm state. In addition, S. aureus decreased β-lactam resistance but increased resistance to tobramycin in the biofilm condition. Furthermore, S. aureus showed a positive effect on reducing resistance to meropenem, doripenem, ertapenem, and tobramycin (except PA-2) and on increasing pathogenicity in P. aeruginosa . Moreover, the gene expression levels for lasR/I and algD were increased in biofilm conditions. The levels of lasI were more prominent in the virulent strain than the β-lactamase producing strain. Furthermore, the expression of KPC was increased in all strains of P. aeruginosa.ConclusionIt was concluded that S. aureus has an inhibitory effect in polymicrobial infections by suppressing the β-lactamase genes and viability of P. aeruginosa and also cooperates with the biofilm-producing P. aeruginosa strains to increase pathogenicity and resistance to tobramycin.
Soil origin and plant genotype structure distinct microbiome compartments in the model legume Medicago truncatula
Authors: Brown Shawn P. , Grillo Michael A. , Podowski Justin C. , Heath Katy Denise
Published: July 2020

Background

Understanding the genetic and environmental factors that structure plant microbiomes is necessary for leveraging these interactions to address critical needs in agriculture, conservation, and sustainability. Legumes, which form root nodule symbioses with nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, have served as model plants for understanding the genetics and evolution of beneficial plant-microbe interactions for decades, and thus have added value as models of plant-microbiome interactions. Here we use a common garden experiment with 16S rRNA gene amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing to study the drivers of microbiome diversity and composition in three genotypes of the model legume Medicago truncatula grown in two native soil communities.

Results

Bacterial diversity decreased between external (rhizosphere) and internal plant compartments (root endosphere, nodule endosphere, and leaf endosphere). Community composition was shaped by strong compartment × soil origin and compartment × plant genotype interactions, driven by significant soil origin effects in the rhizosphere and significant plant genotype effects in the root endosphere. Nevertheless all compartments were dominated by Ensifer , the genus of rhizobia that forms root nodule symbiosis with M. truncatula , and additional shotgun metagenomic sequencing suggests that the nodulating Ensifer were not genetically distinguishable from those elsewhere in the plant. We also identify a handful of OTUs that are common in nodule tissues, which are likely colonized from the root endosphere.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate strong host filtering effects, with rhizospheres driven by soil origin and internal plant compartments driven by host genetics, and identify several key nodule-inhabiting taxa that coexist with rhizobia in the native range. Our results set the stage for future functional genetic experiments aimed at expanding our pairwise understanding of legume-rhizobium symbiosis towards a more mechanistic understanding of plant microbiomes.
Highly matching Coronavirus-like short sequences can be retrieved from environmental metagenomes
Authors: Mora Maximilian , Egamberdieva Dilfuza , Krause Robert , Martinez Jose Luis , Cernava Tomislav , Berg Gabriele
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThe ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has not only globally caused a high number of causalities, but is also an unprecedented challenge for scientists. False-positive virus detection tests not only aggravate the situation in the healthcare sector, but also provide ground for conspiracy theorists. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of software choice and data interpretation in virome studies. We aimed to further expand theoretical and practical knowledge in virome studies by focusing on short, virus-like DNA sequences in metagenomic data.ResultsExemplarily, analyses of metagenomic data from the dried-out Aral Sea basin in Uzbekistan showed that Coronavirus-like sequences have existed in environmental samples before the current COVID-19 crisis. In the analyzed environmental datasets, diverse Betacoronavirus-like sequences were detected, which also included SARS-CoV-2 matches. Moreover, the data sets harbored regions that show complementarity to PCR primers that are currently in use for virus detection and origin tracing.ConclusionsOur study confirms the importance of parameter selection, especially in terms of read length, for reliable virome profiling. Natural environments are an important source of Coronavirus-like nucleotide sequences that should be taken into account when virome datasets are analyzed and interpreted. Moreover, the identified test primer binding sites in metagenomic data might play an important role for the development of reliable test systems and origin tracing.
Distribution of virulence genes and the molecular epidemiology of Streptococcus pyogenes clinical isolates by emm and multilocus sequence typing methods
Authors: Hamzah Siti Nur Adila , Desa Mohd Nasir Mohd , Jasni Azmiza Syawani , Taib Niazlin Mohd , Masri Siti Norbaya , Hamat Rukman Awang
Published: July 2020

Background: Streptococcus pyogenes has a variety of virulence factors and the predominant invasive strains differ according to specific emm types and geographical orientation. Although emm typing is commonly used as the gold standard method for the molecular characterization, multilocus sequence typing (MLST) has become an important tool for comparing the genetic profiles globally. This study aimed to screen selected virulence genes from invasive and non-invasive clinical samples and to characterize the molecular epidemiology by emm typing and MLST methods. Methods: A total of 42 S. pyogenes isolates from invasive and non-invasive samples collected from 2014 to 2015 from two different tertiary hospitals were investigated for the distribution of virulence factors and their molecular epidemiology by emm and multilocus sequence typing methods. Detection of five virulence genes (speA , speB , speJ , ssa and sdaB) was performed using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the standard primers and established protocol. Results: Multiplex PCR analysis revealed that sdaB/speF (78.6%) and speB (61.9%) were the predominant virulence genes. Regardless of the type of invasiveness, diverse distribution of emm types/subtypes was noted which comprised of 27 different emm types/subtypes. The predominant emm types/subtypes were emm63 and emm18 with each gene accounted for 11.8% whereas 12% for each gene was noted for emm28, emm97.4 and emm91. The MLST revealed that the main sequence type (ST) in invasive samples was ST402 (17.7%) while ST473 and ST318 (12% for each ST) were the major types in non-invasive samples. Out of 18 virulotypes, Virulotype A (five genes, 55.6%) and Virulotype B (two genes, 27.8%) were the major virulotypes found in this study. Phylogenetic analysis indicated the presence of seven different clusters of S. pyogenes. Interestingly, Cluster VI showed that selected emm/ST types such as emm71/ST318 (n=2), emm70.1/ST318 (n=1), emm44/ST31 (n=1) and emm18/ST442 (n=1) have clustered within a common group (Virulotype A) for both hospitals studied. Conclusion: The present study showed that group A streptococci (GAS) are genetically diverse and possess virulence genes regardless of their invasiveness. Majority of the GAS exhibited no restricted pattern of virulotypes except for a few distinct clusters. Therefore, it can be concluded that virulotyping is partially useful for characterizing a heterogeneous population of GAS in hospitals.
Relationship between magnetic resonance imaging lesions and knee symptoms in early knee osteoarthritis: A cross-sectional Japanese population study
Authors: Ota Seiya , Sasaki Eiji , Sasaki Shizuka , Chiba Daisuke , Kimura Yuka , Yamamoto Yuji , Kumagai Mika , Ando Masataka , Tsuda Eiichi , Ishibashi Yasuyuki
Published: July 2020

Background: The prevalence of minute structural abnormalities in early knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and their association with knee symptoms remains unclear. We investigated the prevalence of abnormalities detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and their relation to knee symptoms in women without radiographic evidence of KOA.Methods: This cross-sectional cohort study in a Japanese population included 261 women without radiographic evidence of KOA, which was defined as a Kellgren‒Lawrence grade < 2. All participants underwent T2-weighted fat-suppressed MRI of their right knee. Structural abnormalities (cartilage damage, bone marrow lesions [BMLs], subchondral cysts, bone attrition, osteophytes, meniscal lesions, and synovitis) were scored according to the Whole-Organ MRI Scoring method. Knee symptoms were evaluated by the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis and Outcome Score (KOOS). Participants were divided into early KOA and non-KOA groups based on early KOA classification criteria. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between MRI abnormalities and knee symptoms.Results: Cartilage damage were the most common abnormality (53%), followed by osteophytes (43%), and BMLs (33%). The prevalence of BMLs (47%), meniscal lesions (26%), and synovitis (37%) was higher in early KOA than in non-KOA. On logistic regression analysis, synovitis (odds ratio [OR] = 1.901, P = 0.013) and meniscal lesions (OR = 1.410, P = 0.045) were positively associated with the presence of early KOA.Conclusions: The prevalence of BMLs, meniscal lesions, and synovitis was higher in symptomatic knees. Synovitis was most strongly associated with knee pain and might be a therapeutic target in patients with early KOA.
Increasing chitosanase production in Bacilluse cereus by a novel mutagenesis and screeen method
Authors: Zhang Chaozheng , Li Yi , Zhang Tianshuang , Zhao Hua
Published: July 2020

Background

Chitosan hydrolysis by chitosanase is one of the most effective methods to produce chitosan oligosaccharides, however, the low yield of chitosanase cannot meet the current requirement. In this paper, a strain producing chitosanase was screened, and a novel mutagenesis system (1)) was selected to increase the yield of chitosanase. The hydrolyzed products from chitosan by chitosanase produced by mutan train were also analyzed by LC-MS.
Results

A strain of Bacillus cereus capable of producing chitosanase was screened and identified from soil samples. A mutant strain of Bacillus cereus was obtained by ARTP mutagenesis and bioscreening method, and chitosanase activity was 2.49 folds that of the original bacteria. After optimized fermentation conditions, the enzyme activity of the mutant strain was 3.3 folds that of the original bacteria. The relative molecular weight of the purified chitosanase was 43 kDa. Ten chitosan oligosaccharides(2–4 oligosaccharides) were obtained by hydrolyzing chitosan with it.
Conclutions:

The results showed that the ARTP mutagenesis and bioscreening method could significantly increase the yield of chitosanase in B. cereus, and had little effect on the properties of the enzyme. These findings have potential applications in mutagenesis of other enzyme-producing microorganisms.
High Occupational Physical Activity and cardiovascular risk factors in employees: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gómez-Recasens Montse , Alfaro-Barrio Silvana , Tarro Lucia , Llauradó Elisabet , Solà Rosa
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThe impact of occupational physical activity (OPA) intensity, considering adults work many hours a day, on health is unknown. The present study aims to evaluate the association between the high intensity of OPA and cardiovascular risk factors of employees.MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out in the “Fomento de Construcciones y Contratas S.A. Company” (FCC S.A. Delegation) in 2017, Spain. The intensity of OPA of each employee was classified by work categories in low (≤ 3 METs) or high (> 3 METs). Health and lifestyle data of employees were collected on medical consultation in the workplace.ResultsAssociations were analyzed between the high intensity of OPA and cardiovascular risk factors of employees. 751 employees, 55.5% (n = 417) with high intensity of OPA. An 82.2% (n = 245) of employees with low intensity of OPA presented overweight/obesity compared with 69.0% (n = 171) with high intensity of OPA employees (p < 0.001). In men, high intensity of OPA is negatively associated with Body Mass Index (BMI) (B: -0.042, p = 0.003), waist circumference (B: -0.027, p < 0.001) waist-hip ratio (B: -5.484, p < 0.001), cholesterol (B: -0.007, p = 0.001) and triglycerides (B= -0.003, p = 0.025). In women, high intensity of OPA was positively associated with blood pressure (BP) (systolic BP: B = 0.036, p = 0.005 and diastolic BP: B = 0.040, p = 0.021).ConclusionsIn conclusion, the high intensity of OPA is associated with less cardiovascular risk factors in men, whereas women are associated with high levels of blood pressure, suggesting an influence of gender and work categories.
Abnormal B Cell Compartment Associated With Tfh Cells in Children With Henoch-schonlein Purpura
Authors: Zhang Ning , Tian Ge , Sun Yuanyuan , Pan Jing , Xu Wei , Li Zhe
Published: July 2020

Aim

IgA-producing B cells were found to be associated with children diagnosed with Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP). The present study aimed to determine whether children with HSP possess abnormal B cell subsets.
Methods

A total of 14 children diagnosed with HSP, and age- and gender-matched healthy controls were enrolled in our study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated, and the percentage of B cells subsets and Tfh cells were determined by flow cytometry. Finally, Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlation between the percentage of Tfh cells and B cell subsets.
Results

We found that the frequency of total B cells was significantly increased in children with HSP; however, the percentage of plasma cells was significantly lower in HSP children. A significant reduction in the count of naïve B cells and an increase in class-switched B cells were found in children with HSP compared with healthy controls. We observed that the expression of C-X-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CXCR5) on total CD4+ T cells and the percentage of CD4+CXCR5+ cells were significantly increased within HSP patients. Moreover, significant correlations between Tfh cells and various B cells subsets were observed.
Conclusion

Our study showed a Tfh cell-associated abnormal B cell compartment in HSP children.
State of animal keepers’ knowledge about zoophysiotherapy
Authors: JASTRZĘBSKA EWA , BRZYSZCZ AGNIESZKA
Published: July 2020

Animal physiotherapy is a field of veterinary medicine that is becoming increasingly popular all around the world. The substantial research that has been done so far not only confirms the numerous positive effects of animal physiotherapy, but also indicates that it is attracting an increasing number of supporters. Convalescence and recovery, difficult as they are for the animal, also require time, consistency and many sacrifices from the owner and the physiotherapist. The animal keepers should be made aware of this fact and if necessary, appropriately motivated and educated. The aim of this study was to assess the state of knowledge about zoophysiotherapy among animal keepers and to determine whether they are willing to use it. The study, based on the authors’ questionnaire, was conducted in Poland among 84 owners of horses and dogs from September to November 2018. The questions asked whether the animal owners had used animal physiotherapy or whether they would use it if needed. The owners were also asked about the types of physiotherapy treatment known to them and about the sources of their knowledge. The analysis of the results suggests that the animal keepers show interest in veterinary physiotherapy, have some knowledge of physiotherapeutic procedures and are willing to use zoophysiotherapy in the future. They do not rely only on information provided by veterinary doctors or physiotherapists, but also use other sources to expand their knowledge in this field.
Effect of combined application of Zylexis and a vaccine against FHV-1 and FCV on selected immune response parameters in cats
Authors: TEODOROWSKI OLIWIER , MAJER-DZIEDZIC BARBARA , KALINOWSKI MARCIN , WINIARCZYK STANISŁAW , ADASZEK ŁUKASZ
Published: July 2020

The aim of the study was to evaluate the immune response in cats after the administration of Zylexis (group A), a vaccine against FHV-1 and FCV infections (group B), and a combination of the vaccine and Zylexis (group D). The evaluated parameters included the total number of leukocytes and lymphocytes in peripheral blood, the number of CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes, the ratio of CD4 to CD8 (CD4/CD8) and the concentration of antiFCV and anti-FHV-1 antibodies in the serum of the subjects, as well as the bacteriolytic activity of lysozyme and the haptoglobin level. Significantly higher values of almost all these parameters were recorded in cats receiving a combination of the immunostimulator and the vaccine during the whole study period compared to cats receiving only the immunostimulator or only the vaccine. Additionally, the increase in immunological parameters in animals from this group was positively correlated with the concentration of anti-FHV-1 and anti-FCV antibodies. This may indicate a stimulated humoral as well as cellular response. Neither Zylexis nor the vaccine alone induced as strong an immune response as the combined administration of the vaccine with the immunostimulator. This indicates that it may be advisable to combine vaccines against FHV-1 and FCV with immunostimulators to increase immunity against FHV-1 and FCV. Further studies of the influence of combined administration of vaccines and different immunomodulating preparations on the parameters of specific and non-specific immune responses in cats are necessary.
Impact of Intervention Program on Enhancing Spelling and Writing Skills among Saudi Primary School Pupils with Learning Disabilities
Authors: SHETA Hani , JDAITAWI Farid , YOSSRY A. Essa
Published: July 2020

Learning disabilities (LD) include difficulties in learning the basic language skills including speaking, reading,spelling and writing. Moreover, the pupils at schools can achieve better through proper support and interventionthan conventional methods. In the Saudi context, the Ministry of Education (MoE) incorporated LD in itseducational system in 1996 to facilitate the learning of pupils with LD nationwide. This study is an attempt toexplore the impact of the intervention program on enhancing the basic skills in spelling and writing of the Arabiclanguage among Saudi primary school pupils with LD studying between first and third grades. The study samplecomprised of 38 male pupils with LD, aged between 6-8 years, and were selected from four primary schools inRafha Province. The study adopted the quasi-experimental research design including control and experimentalgroups. The results of the study revealed that there was a significant and positive impact of the program onenhancing the performance of the participants in both spelling and writing skills. It is thought that pupils canachieve better through appropriate intervention. Future studies on examining the performances of spelling andwriting independently are recommended.
PRÁTICAS PEDAGÓGICAS DA BIOLOGIA NO ENSINO PÚBLICO PARANAENSE: DESAFIOS E POSSIBILIDADES
Authors: Stockmanns Jussara Isabel , Navarezi de Ávila Paloma
Published: July 2020

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar as práticas pedagógicas propostas por documentos elaborados para auxiliar os professores, durante as aulas desenvolvidas no ensino médio, da Educação Básica paranaense. Analisaram-se as metodologias e práticas pedagógicas aplicadas à disciplina de biologia, de modo que seja desperto no aluno a curiosidade, investigação e aprendizagem. A metodologia utilizada gira em torno da busca bibliográfica e documental, identificando o que está previsto na BNCC, nos PCNs, nas DCEs, no PPP das escolas e no PTD dos professores para as práticas pedagógicas da disciplina de biologia. Os principais autores utilizados foram Libâneo (2006), Freire (1996) Gasparin (2005), Krasilchik (2005) e Behrens (2012), os quais tratam da importância do planejamento docente, as metodologias eficazes, a interação do aluno com a sociedade e o papel ativo do aluno como pesquisador. Buscou-se pontuar como o método utilizado pelo professor na sala de aula, interfere na agregação da aprendizagem, quando ocorre a relação professor/aluno e interação com a sociedade, numa concepção da didática da pedagogia histórico crítica dos conteúdos, já que estes são inseridos diariamente ao convívio social. Pode-se concluir que não existe uma prática pedagógica ou metodologia específica para se trabalhar os conteúdos de biologia. Os professores adaptam suas práticas pedagógicas de acordo com a realidade e os documentos existentes para a concretização de suas aulas.
O MERCADO EDITORIAL E AS ALTERAÇÕES NO PNLD ENSINO MÉDIO DE 2012 E 2015 – DISCUSSÃO DE QUESTÕES ECONÔMICAS E PEDAGÓGICAS POR TRÁS DO LIMITE DE PÁGINAS
Authors: Artuso Alysson Ramos
Published: July 2020

O presente artigo, teórico e argumentativo, contextualiza o PNLD do ponto de vista autoral e editorial e traz elementos do sumário executivo, da audiência pública e do edital do PNLD 2015 para a discussão dos critérios que limitaram o número de páginas dos livros didáticos brasileiros de Ensino Médio submetidos à avaliação governamental. Entre 2012 e 2018 o número de páginas das obras didáticas aprovadas foi reduzido praticamente pela metade. Para iniciar a discussão desse cenário, o artigo se concentra nas mudanças ocorridas entre 2012 e 2015. Argumenta-se que houve equívocos na escolha dos limites impostos pelo Ministério da Educação e no prazo dado para a produção e adequação das obras entre a divulgação dos critérios de seleção e a data de inscrição dos livros. É também preocupante a razão que motiva essa diminuição na extensão das obras didáticas, aparentemente uma questão econômica requisitada pelo TCU e não uma questão pedagógica, visto que um dos fatores utilizados pelo governo para estipular o preço pago pelos livros é o número de páginas. Ainda assim, falhas no dimensionamento dos valores não trouxeram a economia financeira pedida pelo órgão de controle. São, ainda, debatidas consequências do limite de páginas sobre o material didático, que poderão ter sua qualidade pedagógica comprometida e seu uso minorado para as atividades pedagógicas, pouco justificando o bilionário investimento público realizado.
EPISTEMOLOGIA FEMINISTA: REFLEXÕES NO CAMPO DE ESTUDOS EM CIÊNCIA, TECNOLOGIA E SOCIEDADE
Authors: Nazareno Bruna Ronconi de , Tortato Cíntia De Souza Batista
Published: July 2020

O presente artigo propõe reflexões sobre os estudos feministas e de gênero e a epistemologia feminista no campo de estudos em Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade (CTS). Por meio de revisão bibliográfica indicam-se como esses estudos se aproximam ao reconhecerem os fatores históricos, sociais e culturais na construção dos conhecimentos científicos e tecnológicos, em oposição ao discurso determinista, linear e neutro da ciência clássica iluminista. As pesquisas feministas possibilitam um olhar crítico sobre os discursos hegemônicos sobre a ciência, ao considerar que a ciência clássica construiu-se a partir de perspectivas dominantes. Ao mesmo tempo, a epistemologia feminista interroga-se através de uma permanente postura crítica e reflexiva acerca do seu próprio ato de fazer ciência e aponta para uma objetividade que valorize os saberes situados e localizados. As teóricas feministas interessam-se em construir uma ciência que reconheça as suas próprias “tecnologias semióticas” na construção de um sentido sobre o mundo. Considera-se a importância dos estudos feministas e de gênero no campo de estudos em CTS e suas contribuições no enriquecimento dos debates acerca das construções científicas e tecnológicas nas diferentes sociedades ao dar visibilidade às contradições que geram desigualdades e sofrimentos para mulheres e homens em diversas condições e lugares do mundo.
O JOGO DE XADREZ COMO UM ARTEFATO CULTURAL E TECNOLÓGICO
Authors: Ferreira Isabela Ribeiro , Tortato Cíntia De Souza Batista
Published: July 2020

Resumo: O presente artigo faz uma análise mediante a uma revisão bibliográfica da história do xadrez e sua influência cultural no mundo. Um jogo milenar tendo o seu precursor (Chaturanga) criado somente para suprir as necessidades de um rei que sofria pela perda de seu filho. Célebre pela sua disseminação mundial e atualmente ser um jogo de tabuleiro popular perante a todas as classes sociais. Tendo como seu marco histórico o século VI na Índia, transportado para a China, Japão e Coreia pelos comerciantes na rota da seda em direção a Pérsia. Tempos depois os árabes o aperfeiçoaram e criaram regras que perpetuam até os tempos atuais. Despertou e desperta interesses de pesquisadores sendo considerado um artefato tecnológico construído pelo homem para atender uma necessidade específica, visto também como uma tecnologia de transformação cultural observando que a sua passagem por vários povos obteve uma flexibilidade interpretativa por todos que o comunga. Ao apreciar o xadrez como um artefato cultural e tecnológico deve consideraras as mudanças sofridas e as transformações feitas sociedades que o acolheram e suas contribuições perante o mundo.Palavra-chave: Xadrez, tecnologia e cultura.
ALFABETIZAÇÃO CIENTÍFICA E TECNOLÓGICA: DESAFIOS DA EDUCAÇÃO CTS NO CONTEXTO EDUCACIONAL BRASILEIRO.
Authors: Cunha Marcel , Perlin Hugo Alberto
Published: July 2020

Este estudo tem como objetivo apresentar uma base histórica e conceitual de CTS e suas relações com a Educação CTS, em especial no contexto educacional brasileiro. O aporte teórico fundamentou-se em autores com trabalhos já consolidados em Educação CTS no Brasil, bem como a análise de publicações em periódicos brasileiros. A metodologia utilizada foi a de pesquisa bibliográfica com base em livros, publicações em periódicos brasileiros e bancos de dissertações e teses. Os resultados demonstraram que o campo educacional é visto como meio para a sedimentação do movimento CTS e apesar deste movimento iniciado na década de 1970 não ter origem neste campo, atualmente tem sua difusão pautada nas ações da alfabetização científica e tecnológica. Em resumo, acredita-se que ao promover a alfabetização científica e tecnológica, como prática inclusiva, colabora-se para a democratização da ciência que é o fundamento para o início do movimento CTS. Essa alfabetização pode ser ofertada por diversos atores sociais em espaços formais e não-formais de educação.
Do mito de Métis aos conceitos de Métis de "teto de vidro" e "labirinto de Cristal" Análises de Assimetria de gênero com enfoque CTS
Authors: Surmani Josiane de Souza , Tortato Cintia de Souza Batista , Da Silva Sidney Reinaldo , Baptistella Rogério
Published: July 2020

O presente artigo discute questões de gênero na ciência e tecnologia utilizando o mito de Métis. A abordagem metodológica com o enfoque em Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade, permite relacionar elementos da atividade científica e elementos culturais. A análise apóia-se no “mito de Métis” e a similaridade com os conceitos de “teto de vidro” e “labirinto de cristal”, mecanismos de manutenção do poder masculino. Contribuindo para a compreensão das assimetrias de gênero presentes na sociedade e na ciência.
INFLUÊNCIA DO ESTEREÓTIPO DE GÊNERO NA CIÊNCIA TECNOLOGIA E SOCIEDADE
Authors: Surmani Josiane de Souza , Tortato Cintia de Souza Batista
Published: July 2020

O presente artigo apresenta questões sobre estereótipos de gênero no campo de Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade (CTS). O artigo foi desenvolvido na Disciplina de Estudos de Gênero do Programa de Pós-Graduação em CTS e tem como objetivo compreender como os estereótipos de gênero favorecem a legitimação de desigualdades entre homens e mulheres. A metodologia utilizada foi revisão de bibliografia e, a partir das fontes pesquisadas o trabalho apresenta estudos que evidenciam mecanismos mantenedores da desigualdade e a luta de pesquisadoras feministas para a desconstrução de estereótipos de gênero em busca de igualdade da mulher no campo da Ciência e da Tecnologia.
Edição Especial do I Encontro Nacional Interdisciplinar em Ciência, Tecnologia e Sociedade (ENICTS 2019)
Authors: Tortato Cíntia Souza Batista
Published: July 2020

Editorial
O controle das plataformas digitais
Authors: Artur Karen , Moreira Cardoso Ana Claudia
Published: July 2020

Diante da expansão das plataformas digitais sob demanda, este artigo discute os argumentos que disputam a possibilidade dessas empresas continuarem a se autodenominarem como meras intermediadoras entre consumidores e prestadores de serviços independentes. A partir da abordagem sobre a construção social dos direitos, analisamos algumas experiências judiciais internacionais e, especialmente, do Brasil. Observamos que, apesar do gerenciamento que tais empresas-plataformas têm sobre os trabalhadores, há decisões judiciais que aceitam o discurso das mesmas, distanciando-se, assim, das ações que visam denunciar a insegurança provocada por essas relações e a imposição de um modelo de organização do trabalho à margem da legislação social. Com isso, contribuem para o fortalecimento da autoridade de grandes corporações.

Palavras-chave: plataformas digitais sob demanda; uberização; subordinação; decisões judiciais; regulação do trabalho.
Imaginários anti-coloniais e pós-coloniais:
Authors: Laranjeiro Catarina
Published: July 2020

Partindo de uma reflexão teórica sobre o papel da imagem na consolidação das identidades em processos de luta pela independência, vou procurar realizar um exercício de contrastes entre o cinema anticolonial e o cinema pós-colonial na Guiné-Bissau. O cinema anticolonial surgiu no decorrer da luta armada contra o colonialismo português, tendo sido impulsionado pelo Movimento Tercer Cine e realizado exclusivamente por cineastas não guineenses. Já o cinema pós-colonial, naturalmente encetado por cineastas guineenses, é pautado pelas contradições de uma extrema dependência internacional, mas também pelas potencialidades geradas pela força e autonomia criativa das camadas mais jovens da população. Esta será uma reflexão sobre os conflitos ideológicos e simbólicos gerados pela produção de imagens em processos de luta política e de emancipação social.
A arte performativa do Passinho foda: 2008-2018
Authors: Bacal Tatiana , DOMINGOS EMÍLIO
Published: July 2020

Resumo

Este artigo tem por objetivo uma etnografia de um vídeo que viralizou e se tornou histórico, o Passinho foda, postado em 2008 por um rapaz de 16 anos, numa lan house do subúrbio carioca localizada no bairro de Pilares. Partindo do conceito de ‘arte como mediação’ de A. Hennion, de ‘arte como agência’ de A. Gell e de uma ‘antropologia no som’ de S. Feld, propomos analisar o caráter inventivo da performance digital do passinho, que inclui criação, produção, dança, postagem, som e imagem.

 

Palavras-chave: dança urbana, som, imagem, internet, performance, criatividade
Trajetórias Musicais
Authors: Bento Ricardo
Published: July 2020

Neste trabalho de base etnográfica acompanho diversos jovens músicos que aprenderam a tocar no contexto institucional português da Orquestra Geração, um projeto de inclusão social através da música que se inspirou nas orquestras infantis e juvenis do El Sistema, da Venezuela. Desse modo, a partir desta plataforma comum, irei observar como as redes sociabilidades musicais de alguns destes jovens músicos criam a partir das interações no espaço público das ruas de Lisboa, uma ‘micro banda de metais’ surgida das intensas relações de interconhecimento, aspirações e sonhos coletivos. Nesse sentido, pretendo analisar a integração artística, as trajetórias musicais e a vida social – de jovens músicos empenhados em manifestar-se cívica e culturalmente na esfera pública da cidade.

Palavras Chave: trajetórias musicais; Lisboa; Alta Cena; processos cooperativos; democratização cultural
Turismo penitenciário e arranjos institucionais de mercado
Authors: Luz Chikadze Thamires , Da Silva Mazon Marcia
Published: July 2020

A partir de pesquisa realizada em um município do extremo oeste do estado de São Paulo e convertido em complexo penitenciário, foi possível analisar as especificidades do sistema prisional paulista mediante o que se configurou como turismo penitenciário. O objetivo do artigo é analisar à luz da Sociologia Econômica os efeitos do encarceramento em massa a partir do recorte de mercado. O método consistiu em etnografia e entrevistas semi-estruturadas. A pesquisa conclui que o fluxo das visitantes, identificadas pela categoria nativa mulher de preso, reconverte não só o comércio local como já observado por outras pesquisas como igualmente seus significados, conforme observa Zelizer. Se os presos situam-se num lugar a parte, a política de interiorização dos presídios e sua respectiva dinâmica de mercado inserem as suas famílias num lugar a parte e aprofundam desigualdades. 

Palavras-chave: Prisões. Turismo penitenciário. Estado. Mercado. Consumo.
Di Kamaradas a Irmons
Authors: Wilson Lima Redy
Published: July 2020

O hip-hop apresenta-se aos jovens urbanos cabo-verdianos na segunda metade dos anos de 1980 em formato break dance ou b-boying nos dois maiores centros urbanos, Praia e Mindelo. Nos anos de 1990, o rap, influenciado pelos beats caribenhos, começa-se a desenvolver na cidade capital e no início dos anos de 2000 territorializa-se nos bairros periféricos e passa a estar associado aos gangues e à violência de rua. Nos finais dos anos de 2000, começa a ser utilizado por algumas organizações de rua como veículo de difusão de mensagens pan-africanista e afrocêntrica e a partir de 2010 se torna numa importante plataforma identitária e política. Com este artigo, baseado num trabalho etnográfico sobre o rap e os movimentos sociais nas cidades da Praia e do Mindelo pretendo discutir a importância deste género musical no seio dos jovens em processo de desafiliação e o seu papel na (re)construção de uma identidade de resistência.
Antimicrobial Potentials, Phytochemical Screening and Determination of Bioactive Compounds from Three Indian Folk Medicinal Plants
Authors: Vanitha V. , Vijayakumar S. , Rajalakshmi S.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Globally, multidrug resistance has increased in both the society and health
care systems related to bacterial infections which is impaired due to massive antimicrobial treatments.
Therefore, we need efficient, non-toxic compounds from plant-based alternatives. The aim
of the present study is to investigate the antimicrobial efficacy of leaf extracts with various solvents
of Aegle marmelos, Plumbago zeylanica and Rhinacanthus nasutus against human pathogenic
organisms.

Methods:

Antimicrobial properties of various extracts of A. marmelos, P. zeylanica and R. nasutus
were investigated against human pathogenic organisms such as Acinetobacter baumannii, Salmonella
enteriditis, Bacillus cereus, Streptococcus pneumonia, Mycobacterium tuberculosis and
Aspergillus fumigatous by agar well diffusion method. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC),
Minimum Bactericidal / Fungicidal Concentration (MBC/MFC) values were also evaluated by the
microdilution method and the phytochemicals and functional groups using HPLC, GC-MS and FTIR
analysis were identified.

Results:

Ethyl acetate leaf extract of P. zeylanica showed better antimicrobial activity against the
tested pathogens, especially for S. pneumoniae (40 mm) followed by ethyl acetate extract of R. nasutus
(36 mm) against S. pneumoniae. While the least inhibition zone was observed for the aqueous
extract of P. zeylanica against S. enteritis (10 mm). The MIC value ranged from 3.75 μg/ml to
60 μg/ml and MBC/MFC 7.5 μg/ml to 60 μg/ml. Phytochemical analysis exhibited the presence of
alkaloids, steroids, saponins, flavonoids, tannins, terpenes, phenolics and cardiac glycoside in all
samples of selected plant extracts. Tannins, phenolics and glycoside were found only in the ethyl
acetate extract of P. zeylanica. HPLC and GC-MS analysis of ethyl acetate leaf extract of P. zeylanica
produced ten major peaks thus exhibiting eleven compounds respectively. The chemical nature
of the leaf extract was analyzed by the FT-IR spectrum.

Conclusion:

Ethyl acetate leaf extract of P. zeylanica showed better antimicrobial activity than
other extracts and even standard drugs. Therefore, this plant could be further considered for advanced
research to identify active biomolecules in developing antimicrobial drugs.