bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and functional analysis of SWEET gene family in Averrhoa carambola L. fruits during ripening
Authors: Lin Qihua , Zhong Qiuzhen , Zhang Zehuang
Published: May 2021

Sugar Will Eventually be Exported Transporters (SWEETs), a type of sugar efflux transporters, have been extensively researched upon due to their role in phloem loading for distant sugar transport, fruit development, and stress regulation, etc. Several plant species are known to possess the SWEET genes; however, little is known about their presence in Averrhoa Carambola L. (Oxalidaceae), an evergreen fruit crop (star fruit) in tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. In this study, we established an Averrhoa Carambola L. unigenes library from fruits of ‘XianMiyangtao’ (XM) by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). A total of 99,319 unigenes, each longer than 200 bp with a total length was 72.00 Mb, were identified. A total of 51,642 unigenes (52.00%) were annotated. Additionally, 10 AcSWEET genes from the Averrhoa Carambola L. unigenes library were identified and classified, followed by a comprehensive analysis of their structures and conserved motif compositions, and evolutionary relationships. Moreover, the expression patterns of AcSWEETs in ‘XM’ cultivars during fruit ripening were confirmed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), combined with the soluble sugar and titratable acids content during ripening, showed that AcSWEET2a/2b and AcSWEET16b might participate in sugar transport during fruit ripening. This work presents a general profile of the AcSWEET gene family in Averrhoa Carambola L., which can be used to perform further studies on elucidating the functional roles of AcSWEET genes.
INFLUÊNCIA DO RESÍDUO DE PRODUÇÃO DE CERVEJA NO CRESCIMENTO DE FUNGOS Ganoderma E NA OBTENÇÃO DE β-GLUCANAS
Authors: Schipmann Djonice Beatriz Doege , Timm Thaynã Gonçalves , Costa Tania Maria , Tavares Lorena Benathar Ballod
Published: May 2021

A utilização de efluentes do setor cervejeiro como substrato em cultivos fúngicos torna-se uma alternativa sustentável de reaproveitamento de resíduos. Este trabalho avaliou a velocidade de crescimento micelial radial (Vm) e a produção de β-glucanas pelos fungos Ganoderma lipsiense e Ganoderma applanatum cultivados em placas de Petri contendo resíduo da centrifugação da cerveja Pilsen (RCP), previamente caracterizado quimicamente, nas concentrações bruta (T1), diluído 50% (T2) e 75% (T3), com medições radiais diárias durante 13 dias. Ao término deste período, os micélios foram removidos realizando-se posterior secagem (55°C) para quantificação de β-glucanas. A caracterização química do resíduo indicou a presença de fósforo (81,20 mg L-1), nitrogênio amoniacal (9,18 mg L-1), além de DBO (17.750,00 mg O2 L-1) e DQO (32.050,00 mg O2 L-1). Todas as concentrações de resíduo proporcionaram crescimento micelial e produção de β-glucanas. Em T1, foram obtidos maiores Vm (4,48 e 3,90 mm dia-1) para G. applanatum e G. lipsiense.  Em relação as β-glucanas, G. lipsiense apresentou maiores teores (32 %) no T2 e 30,28% no T1, enquanto G. applanatum produziu teores abaixo de 20%. Os resultados mostram a influência da concentração do meio de cultivo e da espécie fúngica na produção de biocompostos e sugerem que o RCP estudado pode ser reaproveitado, sendo empregado como substrato para produção de compostos de interesse farmacêutico, tais como β-glucanas.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF FAST DISSOLVING TABLET USING LOCUST BEAN GUM AS A NATURAL SUPERDISINTEGRANT AND COMPARISON WITH THE MARKETED PREPARATION
Authors: Mane Namrata S , Muddalwar Namrata A , Nikam Priya V , Dighade Narendra R
Published: May 2021

The aim was to formulate and evaluate fast dissolving tablets of diclofenac sodium to improve the bioavailability of the drug and patient compliance. Fast dissolving tablets of diclofenac sodium were prepared by direct compression method by using superdisintegrants (locust bean gum) in 2%, 3%, 4% 5% & 6% concentration respectively. Tablets were formulated by using natural superdisintegrants locust bean gum (LBG). This formulated mixture i.e., drug and LBG was mixed with other excipients and the tablets were compressed by direct compression. Formulated tablets were characterized by FTIR, pre-compression and post-compression parameters. The In vitro drug release studies were performed in pH 6.8 phosphate buffer. Formulated tablets were characterized by FTIR, the results of IR study showed that there was no interaction between superdisintegrant and pure drug, the results of FTIR study showed that drug was stable in the final formulated tablet. The drug content was evaluated with the help of assay. Five (F1-F5) formulations were evaluated for pre-compression and post-compression parameters and all the results were in the standard limits. Formulated dosage form may be an effective alternative to conventional dosage form which can be effectively used in the treatment of inflammation specially in cases of acute pain.
Perceptions of Students from Northwestern Romania on Online Education during the Pandemic COVID-19
Authors: Cioruța Bogdan-Vasile , Mesaroș Marius , Lauran Monica , Coman Mirela , Lauran Alexandru
Published: May 2021

The current spatio-temporal context, in which the didactic activities in our country (Romania) are still carried out, is, beyond its form of social experiment, a form devoid of spiritual content. In the transition from classical to modern, through multimedia technologies, the interactions based on the teaching-learning-assessment activity are severely widowed by the physical lack of those closely involved in the educational system. In such a context, considered to be still cloudy, unsettled, the level of perception of those trained is questioned. Thus, through this study, our emphasis and attention fall on how online education is received, accepted, or not among Romanian students; for the study being interviewed only the students from the third year of study, from various specializations (technical and non-technical), aged over 21-22 years. This study took place between November 2020 and February 2021, on a sample of 463 students. Only students with whom the teachers had contact, who actively participated in online courses, seminars, and laboratories (especially computer-assisted training seminars), participated and were interviewed. The whole debate focused on the students' report on the teaching activity carried out exclusively online. Their answers, under anonymity and voluntary commitment, being an overview, which we decided to present both descriptive (only fragments) and infographics (only a summary of answers).
The Influence of KEMI’s Capacity Building Programme on Head Teachers’ Competencies in Financial Management in Public Primary Schools in Uasin Gishu
Authors: Ongori Josephine G. , Kitainge Kisilu
Published: May 2021

Aims: The objective of the study was to examine the influence of KEMI’s capacity building programme on head teachers’ competencies in financial management

Study Design: The study adopted the concurrent triangulation design where both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed to collect information and do the analysis at the same time.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Uasin Gishu County of North Rift region. The county lies within latitude: 0° 31' 0.00" N and longitude: 35° 16' 59.88" E. The study was carried out between May 2019 to October 2019

Methodology:  The study targeted six sub-county education officers and 471 head teachers in public primary schools in the county. Simple random sampling was employed in choosing 30% (141) of the public primary schools proportionately from each of the six sub-counties in the county. Every head teacher of the selected public primary schools took part in this study. Data was also gathered from all the six sub-county directors of education of Moiben, Kesses, Turbo, Kapseret, Ainabkoi and Soy. Data was collected using interviews and questionnaire.

Results: Findings indicated that there was a moderate positive correlation between KEMI capacity building programme and head teachers' competency in financial management. KEMI capacity building programme on head teachers competencies had a positive and significant influence on financial management (r (132) = .309, p< .0005). Thus the hypothesis (Ho4) was rejected and this can be explained further by stating that there exists a relationship.

Conclusion: The findings also shows that KEMI had helped head teachers in understanding the budgeting, auditing of the books of accounts, management of income generating activities and improved accountability and transparency of finance. KEMI had also helped head teachers in keeping up to date inventories. KEMI had enhanced head teachers’ adherence to the school budget and to appreciate the need for constituting of tendering committee.
Psychological Wellbeing of Healthcare Workers in Different Hospitals of Karachi (Pakistan) During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Muhammad Hamza Syed , Anwar Sadaf , Iqbal Angila , Ahmad Farah
Published: May 2021

Background: With increasing morbidity and mortality rates throughout the world, COVID-19 has caused a universal psychological impact on the lives of people.

Aims: To examine psychological wellbeing of frontline healthcare professionals and compare mental health among doctors, paramedical staff and allied health workers.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 225 healthcare professionals from 13 different hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. The symptoms of depression, anxiety and insomnia were assessed using the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) and the 7-item Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) respectively.

Results: Major findings of the study were that 44.7% participants had no depression, 38% were reported to have mild anxiety and 3.5% had severe insomnia. Insomnia was correlated with anxiety and depression leading to moderate correlation of 0.516 and 0.694 in both with a highly significant p value (p=0.001 and p=0.001). A significant association of depression was seen with healthcare providers and years of experience with (p=0.009) and (p=0.010) respectively. Levels of anxiety were associated with occupation and years of experience that led to the finding that doctors suffered more from mild anxiety (83.5%) whereas years of experience had no significant association. Correlation of insomnia with occupation and years of experience led to the finding that sub threshold insomnia was found in 29% participants, where majority of participants were allied health workers. However, borderline significant association was found between insomnia and the number of years of work experience (p=0.049).

Conclusion: It is concluded that frontline workers experienced different levels and symptoms of psychological distress in this pandemic.
In Situ Precipitated Calcium Carbonate in the Presence of Pulp Fibers – A Beating Study
Authors: Dölle Klaus , Bajrami Bardhyl
Published: May 2021

The paper industry around the world is in search for new ways to decrease production costs. New approached with additives such as new developed In Situ precipitated paper fillers materials have the potential to reduce production cost and increase profit margins.

In Situ precipitated calcium carbonate filler with 20.9% and 41.7% filler material was produced in a large-scale laboratory unit using a eucalyptus pulp fiber suspension with a 1.7% fiber solids content.

Laboratory beating tests were performed with a Valley Beater and APFI Mill using pure eucalyptus pulp with no filler content as the based trial and the two-laboratory manufactured In Situ precipitated filler pulps.

Valley Beater and PFI Mill laboratory beating machines show similar differences/trends for the breaking length, tear and burst index.

EC-pulp with no filler has the highest strength for breaking length, tear and burst index. With increasing filler level breaking length, tear and burst index decrease. Filler containing pulp shows a decrease in beating time for the same beating level.  20 minutes for the Valley Beater and 15000 revolutions for the PFI mill show highest change in pulp fiber beating level sufficient for paper making operation.

Valley Beater and PFI Mill laboratory equipment operate different and an exact comparison of the beating curves is not possible. Based on the amount of pulp fiber needed for experiments the Valley Beater for large amounts and the PFI mill for smaller amounts should be selected.

The SEM pictographs of the Valley Beater and PFI Mill beating trials from 0 stage to the high beating stage at 80 minutes for the Valley beater and 60000 revolutions for the PFI Mill show similar results. No damage to the fibers is noticeable at the unbeaten level. With increasing beating level. At a magnification of 430 times the fiber structure shows an increasing dense fiber structure with less visible pores. Magnification of 2500 times reveals increasing damage to the fiber wall and fiber surface.
Floristic and Eco-Morphological Study of Antibacterial Plants in Phytotherapeutic Practice of Kasai Oriental in DR Congo
Authors: Musuasua M. M. , Kabena O. N. , Kalanda L. K. , Masens D. M. Y. , Mpiana P.T.
Published: May 2021

Aims: To make an ethnobotanical survey in the province of Kasai Oriental to identify the plant species used in the treatment of bacterial diseases; carry out a floristic analysis and determine their eco-morphological characteristics.

Study Design: The surveys were conducted in the villages of all the territories of the Kasai Oriental province in RD CONGO for five years and nine months, from March 2013 to December 2018. The confirmation of the identified species was made at the Laboratory of the ISP Mbujimayi and Herbarium of the ecology laboratory of the Department of Biology of the University of Kinshasa.

Place and Duration of Study: The surveys were conducted in the villages of all the territories of the Kasai Oriental province in RD CONGO for five years and nine months, from March 2013 to December 2018. The confirmation of the identified species was made at the Laboratory of the ISP Mbujimayi and Herbarium of the ecology laboratory of the Department of Biology of the University of Kinshasa.

Methodology: Pre-established questionnaires were submitted to healers and potential patients living in the region. Data were collected on local phytotherapeutic practices in order to identify indigenous plants used in the treatment of bacterial diseases. The plants listed have been identified and their eco-morphological characteristics were determined.

Results: From examination of the responses of 391 traditional healers and 1,485 residents and potential patients questioned, one hundred and sixteen plant species reputed to be effective against bacteriosis were identified. They belong to 19 orders, 39 families and 87 genera. Among these plants, only 6 families (Fabaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Rubiaceae, Phyllanthaceae, Lamiaceae and Moraceae) provide 51.57% of the species used against bacterial pathologies i.e more than half. Woody plants (62.94%) predominate among the species used (27.59% of trees, 27.59% of shrubs). Wild savannah species (44.83%) and pantropical ones (32.76%) are the most numerous among the plants of Kasai Oriental which provide drugs against bacteriosis.

Conclusion: The results confirm that several local plant species are commonly used to treat bacterial diseases in Kasai Oriental. Local herbalists use more phanerophyte plants from savannah and especially trees and shrubs.
Comparison of Fissurectomy and Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy in the Surgical Management of Chronic Anal Fissure
Authors: Memon Kazim Ali , Khatti Shahnawaz , Pathan Ahmed Hussain , Khatoon Shahida , Memon Abdul Salam , Kumar Sandesh , Khatti Muhammad Usman
Published: May 2021

Background: The anal fissure is a small spilt in the distal anoderm, and it most commonly occurs in the posterior midline of anal canal. Anal fissure causes severe sharp pain on defecation, occasionally accompanied by streak of blood on outside of stool or blood on toilet tissue. Fissures are classified as acute or chronic, acute fissure usually heal spontaneously within six weeks. Fissurectomy had been used as separate technique in the treatment of chronic anal fissure with favorable result. Parallel inside sphincterotomy produces an enduring fall of anal resting pressure, that reestablish mucosal perfusion bringing about recuperating, yet genuine drive component is obscure, and the instrument that travel from intense to constant gap stay dark. This study is design to assess the outcome between two groups, than better modality of the two could be chosen.

Objective: To compare fissurectomy and lateral internal sphincterotomy in the management of chronic anal fissure.

Patient and Methods: The Randomized controlled trial was conducted during 18-02-2015 to 17-08-2015 at Department of surgery,Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Hyderabad. A total of 218 patients with chronic anal fissure were included in this study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Patients in Group A were underwent fissurectomy and patients group B was underwent lateral internal sphincterotomy. Surgery was performed and patients were followed for 8 weeks on regular basis and satisfactory out comes was noted. Information along with demographics was entered in the proforma.

Results: Rate of satisfactory outcome was significantly high in group B as compare to group A [92.66% vs. 76.15%; p=0.001].

Conclusion: Subcutaneous sidelong internal sphincterotomy is a significant surgery for patients with persistent anal fissure. It is compelling and safe, offers fast help of torment, and advances early gap mending without being gone to by any significant complexities.
Predicting the Readiness of Indonesia Manufacturing Companies toward Industry 4.0
Authors: Tanjung Sean Yonathan , Yahya Kresnayana , Halim Siana
Published: May 2021

This research discusses Indonesia's readiness to implement industry 4.0. We classified the Indonesia manufacturing companies' readiness, which is listed in the Indonesia Stock Exchange, in industry 4.0 based on the 2018 annual reports. We considered 38 variables from those reports and reduced them using principal component analysis into 11 variables. Using clustering analysis on the reduced dataset, we found three clusters representing the readiness level in implementing industry 4.0.  Finally, we used the decision tree for analysing the classification rules. As the finding of this study, Total book value of the machine is the variable that defined the readiness of a company in industry 4.0. The bigger those values are, the more ready a company to compete in industry 4.0. The other measures, i.e., Total cost of revenue by total revenue; Direct labor cost; Total revenue/Total employee and Transportation cost/Total revenue, will define the readiness of a manufacturing company to transform into industry 4.0. or not ready to transform into industry 4.0.
Nursing diagnoses representative of the demand for care in hospitalized elderly people / Diagnósticos de enfermagem representativos da demanda de cuidados em pessoas idosas hospitalizadas
Authors: Brito Fabiana Medeiros , Oliveira Jacira dos Santos , Leadebal Oriana Deyze Correia Paiva , Fernandes Maria das Graças de Melo , Santos Kamyla Félix Oliveira dos
Published: May 2021

Objetivos: identificar os diagnósticos de enfermagem representativos da demanda de cuidados em pessoas idosas hospitalizadas e investigar a associação entre os tais diagnósticos e classificação de dependência de cuidados. Método: estudo descritivo, epidemiológico, transversal, realizado com 112 pessoas idosas internadas. Os dados foram coletados utilizando entrevista, sendo analisados por estatística descritiva dos dados, teste qui-quadrado de Pearson e regressão logística. Resultados: os diagnósticos de enfermagem identificados foram: ansiedade (94,6%), déficit de autocuidado para banho (91,1%), eliminação urinária prejudicada (75,9%), déficit de autocuidado para alimentação (74,1%), mobilidade no leito prejudicada (59,8%), risco de integridade da pele prejudicada (47,3%), mobilidade física prejudicada (33,9%) e integridade da pele prejudicada (30,4%), além de associação entre a maioria dos diagnósticos de enfermagem e classificação de dependência de cuidados. Conclusão: a identificação desses diagnósticos e da demanda de cuidados da população idosa hospitalizada é de essencial importância para subsidiar a prática efetiva da Enfermagem.
Nursing diagnosis impaired mood regulation and depressive symptoms in institutionalized elderly people / Diagnóstico de enfermagem regulação do humor prejudicada e sintomas depressivos em pessoas idosas institucionalizadas
Authors: Brito Fabiana Medeiros , Fernandes Wiliana Aparecida Alves de Brito , Santos Kamyla Félix Oliveira dos , Fernandes Maria das Graças Melo
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: Verificar a prevalência do diagnóstico de enfermagem regulação do humor prejudicada e de sintomas depressivos em pessoas idosas institucionalizadas. Método: Estudo descritivo, transversal, quantitativo, realizado com 35 pessoas idosas, em uma instituição de longa permanência para idosos. Dados coletados por meio de entrevista subsidiada por instrumento estruturado. Para a análise, foi utilizada estatística descritiva e teste Qui-quadrado de Pearson. Resultados: Observou-se prevalência do diagnóstico de enfermagem regulação do humor prejudicada em 65,7% das pessoas idosas, e depressão leve a moderada em 57,1% destes, bem como significância estatística entre as variáveis. Conclusão: Considerando os efeitos maléficos da depressão para a saúde da pessoa idosa, é importante que os enfermeiros busquem identificar o diagnóstico de enfermagem regulação do humor prejudicada, assim como a presença de sintomas depressivos nesta população.
Fisrt aid training for teachers and employees / Capacitação em primeiros socorros para professores e funcionários do ensino fundamental e médio
Authors: Martins Grossi Moreira Ana Cândida , Bossi Faleiros Isabela , Bendine Gastaldi Andreia , Gonçales de Assis Ribeiro Benedita , Aparecida Penha Martins Eleine
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: avaliar a efetividade de capacitação para professores e funcionários em primeiros socorros. Métodos: estudo de intervenção de pré e pós-teste, aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética, sob o número 73523117.4.0000.5231. Participaram da pesquisa 34 trabalhadores, com idade de 37 a 70 anos. Resultados: no pré-teste, das oito questões de conhecimento em primeiros socorros, cinco delas obtiveram mais erros que acertos, destacam-se um dos temas sobre convulsão, criança inconsciente e hemorragia nasal. Já no pós-teste, todas as questões obtiveram mais acertos que erros, com destaque nos números telefônicos a serem chamados em caso de emergência, um dos temas de convulsão e hemorragia nasal. Conclusão: a capacitação mostrou melhora significativa do pré-teste para o pós-teste, portanto foi eficaz e sugere-se que seja feito treinamento em primeiros socorros anualmente, garantindo a proteção dos escolares.
Professional workshops for reinsertion of internal staff from a drug rehabilitation center in the labor market / Oficinas profissionalizantes para reinserção de internos de um centro terapêutico de toxicômanos no mercado de trabalho
Authors: Kowalski Layza , Pivetta Aline , Bubans Eduardo Zanin , Viegas Cláudia Verdum , Andrade Vera Regina Medeiros , Alves Izabel Almeida
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: desenvolver atividades a fim de facilitar a reinserção social e no mercado de trabalho de dependentes químicos residentes da comunidade terapêutica Fazenda Paraíso. Método: trata-se de um estudo de abordagem qualiquantitativa, com caráter descritivo. Quinze internos com idade entre 16 e 49 anos participaram de oficinas com cunho teórico/prático ministradas por docentes e acadêmicos do curso de graduação de Farmácia. Resultados: a maioria dos participantes estava com idade acima dos 30 anos, e 80% tinham somente formação em educação básica. Constatou-se que o emprego é capaz de gerar estabilidade financeira, além de proporcionar dignidade e trazer reconhecimento por parte da sociedade, sendo então importante para o toxicômano. Conclusão: o profissional farmacêutico pode ser um grande aliado na reinserção do dependente químico na sociedade, seja pela ministração de oficinas ou palestras de educação em saúde.
User satisfaction with nursing care in the hospital environment / Satisfação dos usuários com os cuidados de enfermagem no ambiente hospitalar
Authors: Brito Leandro Cardozo dos Santos , Pacheco Haylla Simone Almeida , Lopes Paula de Moura , Borges José Wicto Pereira , Nascimento Fernando Ferraz do , Andrade Jesusmar Ximenes
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: analisar o nível de satisfação dos usuários com os cuidados de enfermagem no ambiente hospitalar. Método: estudo transversal, analítico, quantitativo, realizado com 101 pacientes de um hospital do Centro-Sul do Piauí, no período de março de 2016 a janeiro de 2017. Utilizou-se a “Escala de satisfação do cliente” da Classificação dos Resultados de Enfermagem, com análise dos resultados a partir do Software Statistic Package for Social Sciences. Resultados: os pacientes se mostraram satisfeitos com os cuidados de enfermagem (58,4%). As variáveis que apresentaram associação estatisticamente significante com a satisfação foram “raça/cor” (p=0,028) e “situação conjugal” (p=0,030), além dos indicadores “alimentar-se” (p=0,018) e “higiene” (p=0,035) da escala de autocuidado. Conclusão: a satisfação dos pacientes permite a identificação de potencialidades e deficiências fornecendo contribuições para a reorganização das atividades assistenciais, gerenciais e de ensino.
Oral cancer: voice and quality of life after mutilation / Câncer bucal: voz e qualidade de vida pós mutilação
Authors: Fernandes Marta Regina Chaves Camilo , Luz Givaneide Oliveira de Andrade , Lima Cacilda Chaves Morais de , Lima Larissa Chaves Morais de , Santos Sérgio Ribeiro dos , França Inácia Sátiro Xavier de
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: Investigar o impacto da deformidade bucal oncológica na comunicação oral e na qualidade de vida de adultos e idosos. Método: Estudo observacional descritivo, transversal, com abordagem mista. Amostra de 41 pacientes submetidos à cirurgia para retirada do câncer bucal, resultando em mutilação e inteligibilidade verbal. Instrumentos: Questionário sociodemográfico; Índice de Desvantagem Vocal; Questionário Qualidade de Vida da Universidade de Washington; Roteiro Semiestruturado para análise no software Iramuteq. Resultado: A mutilação predominou em região de palato. Avaliação vocal mostrou o sexo masculino com pior qualidade de vida, expressivamente escala Social, enquanto, o feminino, escala Física. A análise lexical mostrou necessidades, frustrações e expectativas. Conclusão: O estudo revelou a vergonha, o medo, o isolamento social e, ao mesmo tempo, a esperança de voltar a, pelo menos, poder comer e ser compreendido pelas outras pessoas através do uso da prótese.
Knowledge and beliefs of university students of the engineering course on sexually transmitted infections / Conhecimentos e crenças de universitários do curso de engenharia sobre as infecções sexualmente transmissíveis
Authors: Sodré Carolina Passos , Spindola Thelma , Tambasco Letícia Brito , Marinho Débora Fernanda Sousa , Woodtli Raquel Ramos , Antunes Rômulo Frutuoso
Published: May 2021

Objetivo: analisar o conhecimento e crenças sobre as infecções sexualmente transmissíveis entre universitários do curso de engenharia. Método: pesquisa descritiva, transversal, quantitativa, realizada em universidade privada no Rio de Janeiro. Selecionou-se uma amostra de 170 estudantes do curso de engenharia. Os achados foram organizados e analisados com emprego da estatística descritiva. Resultados: houve predomínio do sexo masculino (86,47%); idades de 18-23 anos (78,83%); solteiros (60%); sem filhos (97,06%); moram com os pais (76,47%). Não utilizam preservativo de forma contínua (62,25%), mas acreditam ser pouco possível adquirir infecções (42,35%). Apresentam conhecimento insuficiente sobre as infecções (77,65%); reconhecendo as mais divulgadas pela mídia. Conclusão: a maioria dos estudantes reconhece a importância do preservativo, mas não usa regularmente. Os jovens apresentam conhecimentos insuficientes e crenças que colocam em risco a sua saúde sexual.
Climate change shifts population structure and demographics of an alpine herb,Anemone narcissiflora ssp. sachalinensis(Ranunculaceae), along a snowmelt gradient
Authors: Kawai Yuka , Kudo Gaku
Published: May 2021

Alpine ecosystems, characterized by cold climates and short growing seasons, are thought to be most vulnerable to climate change. Warmer temperatures and earlier snowmelt extend the growing season length and increase drought stress for alpine plants, resulting in changes to their distribution.Anemone narcissiflora ssp. sachalinensisis a perennial herb that grows in the alpine snow‐meadows of northern Japan. In the last few decades, its distribution has shifted toward later snowmelt habitat in the Taisetsu Mountains of Hokkaido. We recorded demographic data for this species at early, middle and late snowmelt habitats over four years (2009–2012), and constructed transition matrix models to evaluate how demographic parameters and population growth rate vary between local habitats along a snowmelt gradient. The proportion of reproductive plants was low and seed production was limited in the early snowmelt habitat, with drier soil conditions, in comparison to the middle and late snowmelt habitats, with moist soil conditions. Evidence of the transition from small plants to those in the reproductive stage was limited in the early snowmelt habitat, suggesting that growth was inhibited; the local population in this habitat was estimated to be sustained by seed migration from later snowmelt habitats. These results indicate that advancing snowmelt under climate change may decrease the reproductive activity and population growth rate of snow‐meadow plants if seed migration from later snowmelt populations is limited, resulting in the extinction of local populations.
NGS‐based liquid biopsy profiling identifies mechanisms of resistance to ALK inhibitors: a step toward personalized NSCLC treatment
Authors: Sánchez‐Herrero Estela , Serna‐Blasco Roberto , Ivanchuk Vadym , García‐Campelo Rosario , Dómine Gómez Manuel , Sánchez José M. , Massutí Bartomeu , Reguart Noemi , Camps Carlos , Sanz‐Moreno Sandra , Calabuig‐Fariñas Silvia , Jantus‐Lewintre Eloísa , Arnal Magdalena , Fernández‐Orth Dietmar , Calvo Virginia , González‐Rumayor Víctor , Provencio Mariano , Romero Atocha
Published: May 2021

Despite impressive and durable responses, nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitors (ALK‐Is) ultimately progress due to development of resistance. Here, we have evaluated the clinical utility of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) profiling by next‐generation sequencing (NGS) upon disease progression. We collected 26 plasma and two cerebrospinal fluid samples from 24 advanced ALK‐positive NSCLC patients at disease progression to an ALK‐I. These samples were analyzed by NGS and digital PCR. A tool to retrieve variants at the ALK locus was developed (VALK tool). We identified at least one resistance mutation in the ALK locus in ten (38.5%) plasma samples; the G1269A and G1202R mutations were the most prevalent among patients progressing to first‐ and second‐generation ALK‐Is, respectively. Overall, 61 somatic mutations were detected in 14 genes: TP53, ALK, PIK3CA, SMAD4, MAP2K1 (MEK1), FGFR2, FGFR3, BRAF, EGFR, IDH2, MYC, MET, CCND3, and CCND1. Specifically, a deletion in exon 19 in EGFR, a non‐V600 BRAF mutation (G466V), and the F129L mutation in MAP2K1 were identified in four patients who showed no objective survival benefit from ALK‐Is. Potential ALK‐I‐resistance mutations were also found in PIK3CA and IDH2. Finally, a c‐MYC gain, along with a loss of CCND1 and FGFR3, was detected in a patient progressing on a first‐line treatment with crizotinib. We conclude that NGS analysis of liquid biopsies upon disease progression identified different putative ALK‐I‐resistance mutations in most cases and could be a valuable approach for therapy decision making.
Prognostic biomarker identification and tumor classification in breast cancer patients by methylation and transcriptome analysis
Authors: Zhong Xiongdong , Zhong Guoying
Published: May 2021

Breast cancer is one of the most common and heterogeneous malignancies. Although the prognosis of breast cancer has improved with the development of early screening, the mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis and progression remain incompletely understood. DNA methylation has been implicated in tumorigenesis and tumor development and, in the present study. we screened methylation‐driven genes and explored their prognostic values in breast cancer. RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐Seq) transcriptome data and DNA methylation data of the TCGA‐BRCA dataset were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Differentially expressed genes and differentially methylated genes were identified separately. The intersected 783 samples with both RNA‐Seq data and DNA methylation data were selected for further analysis. Fifty‐six methylation‐driven genes were identified using the MethylMix r package and 10 prognosis methylation‐driven genes (CDO1, CELF2, ITPAIPL1, KCNH8, PTK6, RAB25, RIC3, USP44, ZSCAN1 and ZSCAN23) were further screened by combined methylation and gene expression analysis. Based on the methylation data of the screened 10 methylation‐driven genes, six subgroups were identified with the ConsensusClusterPlus r package. The protein levels of the 10 prognostic methylation‐driven genes were detected by immunohistochemical experiments. Moreover, based on the RNA‐Seq data, a signature calculating the risk score of each patient was developed with stepwise regression. The risk score and other clinical features (age and stage) were confirmed to be independent prognostic factors by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Finally, a prognostic nomogram incorporating all the significant factors was integrated to predict the 3‐, 5‐ and 7‐year overall survival. Taken together, the methylation‐driven genes identified here may be potential biomarkers of breast cancer.
On the MLC leaves alignment in the direction orthogonal to movement
Authors: Latifi Kujtim , Lotey Rajiv , Feygelman Vladimir
Published: May 2021

The main focus of the recommended spatial accuracy tests for the multi‐leaf collimators (MLC) is calibration of the leaf position along the movement direction and overall alignment to the radiation isocenter. No explicit attention was typically paid to the alignment of the leaves from the opposing banks in the direction orthogonal to movement. This paper is a case study demonstrating that verification of such alignment at the time of acceptance testing is prudent. The original standard MLC (SMLC) on an MRIdian MRI‐guided linac (ViewRay Inc., Mountain View, CA, USA) was upgraded to a high‐speed MLC (HSMLC), which is supposed to be mechanically identical to the SMLC except for the higher drive screw pitch. The results of the end‐to‐end IMRT tests demonstrated unacceptable dosimetric results exemplified by an average and maximum ion chamber (IC) point dose error in the high‐dose low‐gradient region of 2.5 ± 1.4% and 4.6%, respectively. Before the upgrade, those values were 0.3 ± 0.7% and 0.9%, respectively. An exhaustive analysis of possible failure modes eventually zeroed in on the average misalignment of about 1 mm in the Y (along the couch) direction between the right and left upper MLC banks. The MLC was replaced, reducing the Y‐direction misalignment to 0.4 mm. As a result, the average and maximum IC dose‐errors became acceptable 1.0 ± 0.7% and 1.6%, respectively. Simple film and/or chamber array tests during acceptance testing can easily detect Y‐direction misalignments between opposing leaves banks measuring a fraction of a mm at isocenter. Left undetected, such misalignment can cause nontrivial dosimetric consequences.
Identification of Distinct Disease Activity Trajectories in Methotrexate‐Naive Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis Receiving Tofacitinib Over Twenty‐Four Months
Authors: Bykerk Vivian P. , Lee Eun Bong , van Vollenhoven Ronald , Gruben David C. , Fallon Lara , Woolcott John C. , Keystone Edward
Published: May 2021

Objective

Tofacitinib is an oral JAK inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To better understand tofacitinib treatment responses, we used group‐based trajectory modeling to investigate distinct disease activity trajectories and associated baseline variables in patients with active RA.

Methods

This post hoc analysis used data from a phase III study of methotrexate‐naive patients receiving tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily. Changes in the 4‐variable Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (DAS28‐ESR) from baseline to month 24 were used in group‐based trajectory modeling to identify distinct disease activity trajectories. Patient and disease characteristics, changes in radiographic progression and patient‐reported outcomes, and safety up to month 24 were compared among trajectory groups.

Results

From 346 methotrexate‐naive patients, 5 disease trajectory groups, defined by DAS28‐ESR scores, were identified, which progressed from high disease activity (HDA) to remission (group 1, n = 28), to low disease activity (LDA) rapidly (group 2, n = 107), to moderate disease activity (group 3, n = 98), to LDA gradually (group 4, n = 46), or remained in HDA (group 5, n = 67), at month 24. At baseline, groups 1 and 2 generally had lower disease activity and more favorable patient‐reported outcomes, compared with other groups. Improvements in radiographic progression and patient‐reported outcomes over 24 months were generally consistent with DAS28‐ESR–predicted disease activity trajectories. Adverse event rates were generally comparable across groups.

Conclusion

Distinct phenotypic subgroups identified heterogeneity in patients with RA normally analyzed as a single population. Trajectory modeling may enable separation of clinically meaningful subsets of patients with RA, and may help optimize treatment outcomes.
Chronic Primary or Secondary Noninflammatory Musculoskeletal Pain and Disrupted Sexual Function and Relationships: A Systematic Review
Authors: Briggs Andrew M. , Slater Helen , Van Doornum Sharon , Pearson Lauren , Tassone Eliza C. , Romero Lorena , Chua Jason , Ackerman Ilana N.
Published: May 2021

Objective

Evidence points to the impact of chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions on sexual function, yet there is little systematic appraisal and synthesis of evidence examining these associations across noninflammatory conditions. We aimed to systematically review evidence surrounding the association between chronic primary and chronic secondary musculoskeletal pain with intimate relationships and sexual function.

Methods

Four electronic databases were searched from January 1, 1990 to September 5, 2019 for cross‐sectional or prospective epidemiologic and qualitative studies among cohorts with chronic primary or secondary noninflammatory musculoskeletal pain, defined by International Classification of Diseases, Eleventh Revision classification criteria.

Results

Fifty‐one eligible studies were included (46 quantitative, 3 qualitative, 2 mixed‐methods designs). Sample sizes ranged from 13 to 12,377 and mean age from 32.6 to 69.2 years. Cross‐sectional controlled cohort studies consistently reported poorer sexual function outcomes among cohorts with pain relative to comparison groups. Of 15 studies reporting outcomes for the Female Sexual Function Index, 14 demonstrated mean scores of ≤26.55 for the pain group, indicating sexual dysfunction. In 4 studies reporting the International Index of Erectile Function, the pain cohorts demonstrated consistently lower mean subscale scores and the erectile function subscale scores were ≤25.0, indicating erectile dysfunction. Three key themes emerged from a meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies: impaired sexual function; compromised intimate relationships; and impacts of pain on sexual identity, body image, and self‐worth.

Conclusion

Sexual dysfunction and negative impacts on intimate relationships are highly prevalent among people with chronic noninflammatory musculoskeletal pain. Consideration of these associations is relevant to the delivery of holistic, person‐centered musculoskeletal pain care.
A Self‐Supported High‐Entropy Metallic Glass with a Nanosponge Architecture for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution under Alkaline and Acidic Conditions
Authors: Jia Zhe , Nomoto Keita , Wang Qing , Kong Charlie , Sun Ligang , Zhang Lai‐Chang , Liang Shun‐Xing , Lu Jian , Kruzic Jamie J.
Published: May 2021

Developing highly efficient and durable electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) under both alkaline and acidic media is crucial for the future development of a hydrogen economy. However, state‐of‐the‐art high‐performance electrocatalysts recently developed are based on carbon carriers mediated by binding noble elements and their complicated processing methods are a major impediment to commercialization. Here, inspired by the high‐entropy alloy concept with its inherent multinary nature and using a glassy alloy design with its chemical homogeneity and tunability, we present a scalable strategy to alloy five equiatomic elements, PdPtCuNiP, into a high‐entropy metallic glass (HEMG) for HER in both alkaline and acidic conditions. Surface dealloying of the HEMG creates a nanosponge‐like architecture with nanopores and embedded nanocrystals that provides abundant active sites to achieve outstanding HER activity. The obtained overpotentials at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 are 32 and 62 mV in 1.0 m KOH and 0.5 m H2SO4 solutions, respectively, outperforming most currently available electrocatalysts. Density functional theory reveals that a lattice distortion and the chemical complexity of the nanocrystals lead to a strong synergistic effect on the electronic structure that further stabilizes hydrogen proton adsorption/desorption. This HEMG strategy establishes a new paradigm for designing compositionally complex alloys for electrochemical reactions.
Polysulfide Filter and Dendrite Inhibitor: Highly Graphitized Wood Framework Inhibits Polysulfide Shuttle and Lithium Dendrites in Li–S Batteries
Authors: Chen Yuanzhen , Zou Kunyang , Dai Xin , Bai Haihua , Zhang Shilin , Zhou Tengfei , Li Chengxin , Liu Yongning , Pang Wei Kong , Guo Zaiping
Published: May 2021

The design and manufacture of advanced materials based on biomaterials provide new opportunities to solve many technological challenges. In this work, a highly graphitized wood framework (GWF) with a porous tunnel structure and microvilli is constructed as a multifunctional interlayer to improve the electrochemical performance of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. The GWF not only retains the 3D transport network of wood, but also offers increased deposition sites for polysulfides through the microvilli which grow on the inner surfaces of the carbon tunnels. Electrochemical tests show that GWF effectively enhances the initial discharge capacity of the Li–S battery to 1593 mAh g−1at 0.05 C, with a low capacity decline of 0.06% per cycle at 1 C. Besides, the GWF interlayer also effectively protects lithium anodes from corrosion by Sx2−, thus they still keep their metallic luster and clean surface even after long charge‐discharge cycles. These enhancements are attributed to the high conductivity, abundant microvilli, and tunnel confinement effects of GWF, which effectively inhibit the shuttle effect of polysulfides by the same principle as nose hairs filtering the air. This work presents a new understanding of bionic/biomaterials and a new strategy to improve the performance of Li–S batteries.
Solution‐Processable Metal–Organic Framework Nanosheets with Variable Functionalities
Authors: Yuan Hongye , Liu Guoliang , Qiao Zhiwei , Li Nanxi , Buenconsejo Pio John S. , Xi Shibo , Karmakar Avishek , Li Mengsha , Cai Hong , Pennycook Stephen John , Zhao Dan
Published: May 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) intrinsically lack fluidity and thus solution processability. Direct synthesis of MOFs exhibiting solution processability like polymers remains challenging but highly sought‐after for multitudinous applications. Herein, a one‐pot, surfactant‐free, and scalable synthesis of highly stable MOF suspensions composed of exceptionally large (average area > 15 000 µm2) NUS‐8 nanosheets with variable functionalities and excellent solution processability is presented. This is achieved by adding capping molecules during the synthesis, and by judicious controls of precursor concentration and MOF nanosheet–solvent interactions. The resulting 2D NUS‐8 nanosheets with variable functionalities exhibit excellent solution processability. As such, relevant monoliths, aero‐ and xerogels, and large‐area textured films with a great homogeneity, controllable thickness, and appreciable mechanical properties can be facilely fabricated. Additionally, from both the molecular‐ and chip‐level it is demonstrated that capacitive sensors integrated with NUS‐8 films functionalized with different terminal groups exhibit distinguishable sensing behaviors toward acetone due to their disparate host–guest interactions. It is envisioned that this simple approach will greatly facilitate the integration of MOFs in miniaturized electronic devices and benefit their mass production.
Efficient Er/O Doped Silicon Photodiodes at Communication Wavelengths by Deep Cooling
Authors: Zhao Xingyan , Lin Kaiman , Gao Sai , Liu Huayou , He Jiajing , Wang Xiaoming , Wen Huimin , Dan Yaping
Published: May 2021

Wide band infrared photodetectors have found a wide range of applications in sensing, communication, and spectral analysis. However, the commonly used infrared photodetectors are based on Ge and III‐V semiconductors which are not complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) compatible and therefore have limited applications. There is a huge demand for silicon‐based infrared photodetectors due to its low‐cost and compatibility with CMOS processes. Nevertheless, the spectral bandwidth of Si photodetectors is limited to wavelengths below 1.1 µm. Several approaches are developed to extend Si photodetection bandwidth to communication wavelengths. Er/O doped Si is a promising approach which, however, suffers from low infrared responsivities at room temperature when the samples are treated with the standard rapid thermal annealing (RTA). In this work, a novel deep cooling process to treat Er/O doped silicon waveguide photodiodes is applied. In comparison with RTA process, the deep cooling process reduces the defect concentration in silicon by two orders of magnitude, resulting in a two‐orders‐of‐magnitude reduction in leakage current density and an enhanced photoresponsivity to 100 mA W−1 at 1510 nm. The 3dB bandwidth of the silicon waveguide photodiode reaches 30 kHz. The device performance can be further improved by optimizing the deep cooling condition and Er/O doping concentration.
Combinations of Superior Inorganic Phosphors for Level‐Tunable Information Hiding and Encoding
Authors: Wu Youfusheng , Wu Wei
Published: May 2021

Inorganic photoluminescence (PL) phosphors (including upconversion (UC), down‐shifting (DS), and persistent (PersL) materials) with tunable outputs, high quantum yields (QYs), and excellent photostability have attracted tremendous attention in advanced information hiding and encoding (IHE). The three kinds of phosphors endow security patterns in different IHE levels owing to their unique optical features. For security applications, it is very necessary to review how to boost optical performance and achieve multi‐level anti‐counterfeiting. Herein, diversely pivotal approaches on the achievement of multicolor emissions, high QYs, and excellent photostability are summarized. Full learning of these methods is promising to design superior inorganic phosphors. Based on the appealing optical properties of inorganic PL materials, a progressively improved IHE level is revealed by using unitary inorganic PL material, the couples of UCL, DS, and PersL, and further combinations together with external stimuli. This review not only deepens an understanding of designing high‐performance inorganic PL phosphors, but also gets inside into the construction of high‐performance IHE.